Manufacturer: Eli Lilly (Cialis brand); multiple manufacturers (generic/professional)
Known as: Tadalafil / Cialis Professional
| Package | Price | Per pill |
|---|---|---|
| 10 pills | $54.57 | $5.46 |
| 20 pills | $67.04 | $3.35 |
| 30 pills | $79.51 | $2.65 |
| 60 pills | $116.93 | $1.95 |
| 90 pills | $154.35 | $1.71 |
| 120 pills | $191.77 | $1.60 |
| 180 pills | $266.60 | $1.48 |
| 360 pills | $491.11 | $1.36 |
| Package | Price | Per pill |
|---|---|---|
| 20 pills | $66.81 | $3.34 |
| 30 pills | $77.58 | $2.59 |
| 60 pills | $109.89 | $1.83 |
| 90 pills | $142.19 | $1.58 |
| 120 pills | $174.50 | $1.45 |
| 180 pills | $239.11 | $1.33 |
| 360 pills | $432.94 | $1.20 |
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What Is Cialis Professional?
Cialis Professional is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. It contains tadalafil, a substance from the class of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which increases blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.
The active ingredient tadalafil was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2003 under the brand name Cialis, developed by Eli Lilly. Since then, tadalafil has become one of the most widely prescribed treatments for ED worldwide.
The Professional version represents a modified formulation of tadalafil, designed for potentially faster absorption and longer-lasting effects. It is available in 20 mg, 40 mg, and 100 mg oral tablets and typically remains effective for up to 36 hours.
How Cialis Professional Works: Mechanism of Action
Tadalafil, the active compound in Cialis Professional, works by selectively inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme in the smooth muscle of penile blood vessels.
During sexual arousal, nitric oxide is released in the corpus cavernosum, stimulating production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). This molecule relaxes vascular smooth muscles and increases blood flow, leading to an erection. PDE5 normally breaks down cGMP; by blocking this enzyme, tadalafil helps maintain higher cGMP levels, supporting a firm and sustained erection.
Key Pharmacological Features
- Acts only in response to sexual stimulation.
- Has a half-life of about 17.5 hours, giving an effective window of up to 36 hours.
- Can be taken with or without food, with minimal impact on absorption.
Compared with sildenafil (Viagra) or vardenafil (Levitra), tadalafil offers longer duration and is less affected by food or moderate alcohol intake, allowing greater flexibility for sexual activity.
Cialis Professional Uses and Indications
Cialis Professional is prescribed primarily for:
- Erectile dysfunction (ED) – difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — improvement of urinary symptoms when tadalafil is indicated.
- Combined therapy for ED + BPH, following the same medical criteria as standard tadalafil.
Although tadalafil has additional approved uses under other brand names (for example, Adcirca for pulmonary arterial hypertension), Cialis Professional should be taken only for conditions specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Cialis Professional Dosage and Administration
Cialis Professional is taken orally, usually 30–60 minutes before sexual activity. It can be taken with water, with or without food. The effect may last up to 36 hours, so a single dose often provides extended coverage.
Recommended Dosage by Age and Condition
| Patient Group / Condition | Starting Dose | Typical Dose | Maximum Dose (per 36 h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults (18–64 years) | 10 mg as needed | 20 mg as needed | 40 mg |
| Older adults (≥65 years) | 5–10 mg | 10–20 mg | 20 mg |
| Daily therapy (ED + BPH) | 2.5 mg once daily | 5 mg once daily | 5 mg daily |
Administration Notes
- Do not exceed one dose within 24 hours.
- Tablets should be swallowed whole.
- Heavy or fatty meals may slightly delay onset.
- Avoid combining with other PDE5 inhibitors or nitrate-containing drugs.
For men prescribed daily tadalafil therapy, tablets should be taken at approximately the same time each day. If a dose is missed, it can be taken later that day but not doubled.
How Long Does Cialis Professional Last?
Cialis Professional provides one of the longest durations of action among PDE5 inhibitors. Most men notice effects within 20–30 minutes after taking the tablet, with benefits lasting up to 36 hours.
Pharmacological Timeline
- Onset: 20–30 minutes
- Peak effect: 1–2 hours
- Duration: 24–36 hours
Factors Affecting Duration
- Metabolism and age: slower metabolism prolongs effect.
- Food: high-fat meals may delay absorption.
- Alcohol: excessive use can reduce efficacy and lower blood pressure.
- Drug interactions: nitrates, antihypertensives, and antifungal medicines can influence blood levels.
- General health: diabetes, smoking, or obesity may diminish response.
This extended window allows greater spontaneity in sexual activity compared with shorter-acting ED medications.
How to Make Cialis Professional More Effective
The effectiveness of tadalafil can vary depending on individual health, lifestyle, and the way it is taken. Certain habits and routines can help improve its results.
Practical Recommendations
- Take it on an empty stomach. Although tadalafil works with or without food, high-fat meals may slow absorption.
- Limit alcohol. Alcohol in large amounts can reduce blood pressure and weaken erection quality.
- Stay physically active. Regular exercise supports healthy circulation, enhancing the body’s response to the drug.
- Stop smoking. Nicotine constricts blood vessels and can lower drug effectiveness.
- Manage chronic diseases. Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity reduce blood flow and should be controlled for better outcomes.
- Be consistent. If using a daily low-dose form, take it at the same time each day to maintain stable blood levels.
Cialis Professional works best as part of an overall approach to sexual health that includes good cardiovascular condition, stress reduction, and adequate sleep.
Cialis Professional vs Viagra vs Levitra: Which Is Better?
All three major PDE5 inhibitors Cialis Professional (tadalafil), Viagra (sildenafil), and Levitra (vardenafil) are effective for treating erectile dysfunction, but they differ in duration, onset, and food interaction.
Comparison of Common PDE5 Inhibitors
| Feature | Cialis Professional (Tadalafil) | Viagra (Sildenafil) | Levitra (Vardenafil) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Onset of action | 20–30 minutes | 30–60 minutes | 25–60 minutes |
| Duration of effect | Up to 36 hours | 4–6 hours | 5–8 hours |
| Half-life | ~17.5 hours | ~4 hours | ~5 hours |
| Food interaction | Minimal | Reduced by fatty meals | Mild delay |
| Typical starting dose | 10–20 mg | 50 mg | 10–20 mg |
| Available generics | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Key advantage | Long duration (“weekend pill”) | Fast availability and lower cost | Moderate duration with good tolerance |
Cialis Professional stands out for its prolonged activity and flexible timing, while Viagra remains more widely recognized. Levitra is often chosen for its balanced effect and slightly lower rate of visual side effects. The best option depends on individual tolerance, health status, and personal preference.
Cialis Professional Side Effects and Safety Profile
Tadalafil is generally well tolerated, but as with all medications, some users may experience adverse effects. These can range from mild discomfort to serious reactions that require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Flushing (warmth or redness of the face and neck)
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Nasal congestion
- Back or muscle pain
These reactions are usually mild and temporary.
Less Common but Serious Side Effects
- Sudden loss of vision or hearing
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath or fainting
- Erection lasting longer than 4 hours (priapism)
- Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Contraindications
Cialis Professional should not be taken by individuals who:
- Use nitrate medications (for example, nitroglycerin)
- Have severe heart disease or recent heart attack or stroke
- Have uncontrolled low blood pressure
- Have severe liver or kidney impairment
Patients taking alpha-blockers, antifungal drugs, or HIV protease inhibitors should discuss potential interactions with their doctor before using tadalafil.
Cialis Professional Price and Availability (2025)
The cost of Cialis Professional varies by country, dosage, and whether it is a brand or generic version. In 2025, most pharmacies and telehealth providers offer generic tadalafil equivalents, which significantly reduce the price per tablet.
| Region | Average Retail Price (20–40 mg) | Generic Availability |
|---|---|---|
| United States | USD 8–15 per tablet | Yes |
| United Kingdom | GBP 6–10 per tablet | Yes |
| Canada | CAD 10–15 per tablet | Yes |
| Australia | AUD 12–18 per tablet | Yes |
Prices may differ depending on prescription coverage, insurance plans, or online ordering. Generic tadalafil provides the same active ingredient and efficacy as brand-name versions at a lower cost.
Where to Buy Cialis Professional Online Safely
Cialis Professional should only be purchased from licensed and verified pharmacies. Buying medication from unregulated or “no-prescription” websites carries the risk of receiving counterfeit or unsafe products.
Safe Online Purchasing Guidelines
- Choose pharmacies that require a valid prescription.
- Verify the website’s credentials — in the U.S., look for the VIPPS (Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites) seal or a “.pharmacy” domain.
- Ensure that contact information for a licensed pharmacist is available.
- Avoid offers that advertise extremely low prices or “free samples without prescription.”
- Use secure payment methods and confirm that the pharmacy operates under national regulatory standards.
In-person or telehealth prescriptions are the safest way to obtain Cialis Professional legally and ensure authenticity and quality.
Can I Take Cialis Professional Every Day?
Cialis Professional can be prescribed either as needed (before sexual activity) or, in some cases, as a low-dose daily regimen using standard tadalafil formulations.
The Professional version, typically available in higher doses (20–40 mg), is primarily intended for as-needed use, not continuous daily therapy. Taking it daily at high strength increases the likelihood of side effects such as headaches, muscle pain, or low blood pressure.
For men who prefer a consistent effect without timing doses, doctors may recommend tadalafil 2.5 mg or 5 mg once daily instead of higher “Professional” doses.
Cialis Professional vs Generic Tadalafil
Both Cialis Professional and generic tadalafil contain the same active ingredient, providing equivalent medical benefits and duration of action. The main distinctions lie in branding, formulation, and cost.
| Feature | Cialis Professional (Brand) | Generic Tadalafil |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Tadalafil | Tadalafil |
| Manufacturer | Various licensed producers | Multiple generic companies |
| FDA approval | Yes (for tadalafil molecule) | Yes |
| Therapeutic effect | Identical | Identical |
| Typical cost (U.S.) | USD 10–15 per tablet | USD 2–5 per tablet |
| Packaging | Brand-specific | Varies by supplier |
Generics are required by the FDA to meet the same quality, safety, and efficacy standards as branded medications. Therefore, most patients achieve the same clinical results while paying considerably less.
Special Populations and Precautions
Certain groups require extra caution or dosage adjustments when using Cialis Professional.
Elderly Patients
Older adults may experience slower drug clearance, increasing exposure. A starting dose of 5–10 mg is generally recommended to minimize side effects.
Cardiovascular Disease
Patients with recent myocardial infarction, heart failure, or unstable angina should avoid sexual activity and PDE5 inhibitors until cleared by a physician.
Liver and Kidney Impairment
Tadalafil metabolism occurs primarily in the liver.
- Mild impairment: dose adjustment may be necessary.
- Severe impairment or renal failure: use is not recommended.
Diabetes
Diabetic patients can benefit from tadalafil but may have reduced response rates. Optimal blood sugar control improves treatment success.
Hypertension and Hypotension
Those taking alpha-blockers or antihypertensives should monitor blood pressure closely, as combining these with tadalafil may cause dizziness or fainting.
Interaction with Other Substances
Avoid concomitant use with:
- Nitrates or nitric oxide donors (severe hypotension risk)
- Certain antifungal or antibiotic drugs (ketoconazole, erythromycin)
- Grapefruit juice, which can alter tadalafil metabolism
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cialis Professional
What is Cialis Professional used for?
How long does Cialis Professional last?
Can I take Cialis Professional every day?
How fast does Cialis Professional start working?
Is Cialis Professional better than Viagra?
Can I take Cialis Professional with alcohol?
Does food affect Cialis Professional absorption?
Can women take Cialis Professional?
Is Cialis Professional available over the counter?
What should I do if Cialis Professional doesn’t work for me?
Resources
- FDA – CIALIS (tadalafil) Label — clinical indications, dosing, contraindications.
- FDA – Drug Approval Package: Cialis (tadalafil) NDA 021368 — approval documents and labeling archive.
- Mayo Clinic – Tadalafil (oral route) — patient-friendly dosing and safety overview.
- Medscape – Adcirca, Cialis (tadalafil) Monograph — professional dosing, interactions, pharmacology.
- StatPearls (NCBI/NIH) – Tadalafil — up-to-date clinical review, half-life, indications.
- StatPearls – PDE5 Inhibitors (class overview) — comparative context among PDE5i agents.
- Cleveland Clinic – Erectile Dysfunction — condition background used in counseling.
- FDA – How to Buy Medicines Safely Online (BeSafeRx guidance)
- NABP – Safe.Pharmacy — verify online pharmacies.