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Cialis

Tadalafil · Tablet, Film Coated

Prescription NDA TE AB1 RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
Cialis
Generic name
Tadalafil
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route
Oral
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
Eli Lilly and Company
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
3
NDC product codes
3
Packages
3
Data completeness
76% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Tadalafil 10 mg/1 403957 View
Tadalafil 20 mg/1 403957 View
Tadalafil 5 mg/1 403957 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route of administration
Oral
Presentations
6

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitor [EPC] EPC All 21 members
Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors [MoA] MoA All 21 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
021368
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
November 21, 2003
Sponsor
LILLY
Products on application
4
Submissions recorded
22
Products approved under application 021368.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
021368-001 CIALIS TABLET TADALAFIL Prescription AB1 RLD
021368-002 CIALIS TABLET TADALAFIL Prescription AB1 RLD
021368-003 CIALIS TABLET TADALAFIL Prescription AB1 RLD RS
021368-004 CIALIS TABLET TADALAFIL Discontinued AB1 RLD

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AB1
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 021368.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 30 Efficacy Approved February 15, 2018 Priority
Supplement 29 Labeling Approved May 5, 2017 Standard
Supplement 28 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved July 12, 2016 —
Supplement 27 Labeling Approved April 22, 2016 Standard
Supplement 26 Labeling Approved September 16, 2015 Standard
Supplement 25 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved September 1, 2015 —
Supplement 23 Labeling Approved April 29, 2014 Standard
Supplement 22 Efficacy Approved October 10, 2013 Standard
Supplement 21 Efficacy Approved October 6, 2011 Standard
Supplement 20 Efficacy Approved October 6, 2011 Standard
Supplement 17 Labeling Approved February 1, 2010 Unknown
Supplement 13 Labeling Approved August 7, 2008 Standard
Supplement 11 Efficacy Approved January 7, 2008 Unknown
Supplement 12 Labeling Approved October 18, 2007 Standard
Supplement 7 Labeling Approved January 22, 2007 Standard
Supplement 10 Labeling Approved October 23, 2006 Standard
Supplement 9 Labeling Approved October 23, 2006 Standard
Supplement 8 Labeling Approved March 7, 2006 Standard
Supplement 6 Labeling Approved July 8, 2005 Standard
Supplement 5 Labeling Approved March 31, 2005 Standard
Supplement 4 Labeling Approved March 31, 2005 Standard
Original application 1 Type 1 - New Molecular Entity Approved November 21, 2003 Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · February 23, 2018
  • 0 · Supplement · February 16, 2018
  • 0 · Original application · November 16, 2017
  • 0 · Original application · November 16, 2017
  • 0 · Original application · November 16, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · May 9, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · May 8, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · April 29, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · April 26, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · September 23, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · September 17, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · May 2, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · April 30, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · January 17, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · October 17, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · October 11, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · October 12, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · October 12, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · October 7, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · October 7, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · February 16, 2010
  • 0 · Supplement · February 16, 2010
  • 0 · Supplement · August 13, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · January 9, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · January 8, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · October 22, 2007
  • 0 · Supplement · October 18, 2007
  • 0 · Supplement · January 25, 2007
  • 0 · Supplement · January 24, 2007
  • 0 · Supplement · October 26, 2006

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260603). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260603

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE CIALIS ® is a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor indicated for the treatment of: erectile dysfunction (ED) ( 1.1 ) the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) ( 1.2 ) ED and the signs and symptoms of BPH (ED/BPH) ( 1.3 ) If CIALIS is used with finasteride to initiate BPH treatment, such use is recommended for up to 26 weeks ( 1.4 ). 1.1 Erectile Dysfunction CIALIS ® is indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). 1.2 Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia CIALIS is indicated for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). 1.3 Erectile Dysfunction and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia CIALIS is indicated for the treatment of ED and the signs and symptoms of BPH (ED/BPH). 1.4 Limitation of Use If CIALIS is used with finasteride to initiate BPH treatment, such use is recommended for up to 26 weeks because the incremental benefit of CIALIS decreases from 4 weeks until 26 weeks, and the incremental benefit of CIALIS beyond 26 weeks is unknown [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] .

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Do not split CIALIS tablets; entire dose should be taken. CIALIS for use as needed: ED: Starting dose: 10 mg as needed prior to sexual activity. Increase to 20 mg or decrease to 5 mg based upon efficacy/tolerability. Improves erectile function compared to placebo up to 36 hours post dose. Not to be taken more than once per day ( 2.1 ). CIALIS for once daily use: ED: 2.5 mg taken once daily, without regard to timing of sexual activity. May increase to 5 mg based upon efficacy and tolerability ( 2.2 ). BPH: 5 mg, taken at approximately the same time every day ( 2.3 ) ED and BPH: 5 mg, taken at approximately the same time every day ( 2.3 , 2.4 ) CIALIS may be taken without regard to food ( 2.5 ). 2.1 CIALIS for Use as Needed for Erectile Dysfunction The recommended starting dose of CIALIS for use as needed in most patients is 10 mg, taken prior to anticipated sexual activity. The dose may be increased to 20 mg or decreased to 5 mg, based on individual efficacy and tolerability. The maximum recommended dosing frequency is once per day in most patients. CIALIS for use as needed was shown to improve erectile function compared to placebo up to 36 hours following dosing. Therefore, when advising patients on optimal use of CIALIS, this should be taken into consideration. 2.2 CIALIS for Once Daily Use for Erectile Dysfunction The recommended starting dose of CIALIS for once daily use is 2.5 mg, taken at approximately the same time every day, without regard to timing of sexual activity. The CIALIS dose for once daily use may be increased to 5 mg, based on individual efficacy and tolerability. 2.3 CIALIS for Once Daily Use for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia The recommended dose of CIALIS for once daily use is 5 mg, taken at approximately the same time every day. When therapy for BPH is initiated with CIALIS and finasteride, the recommended dose of CIALIS for once daily use is 5 mg, taken at approximately the same time every day for up to 26 weeks. 2.4 CIALIS for Once Daily Use for Erectile Dysfunction and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia The recommended dose of CIALIS for once daily use is 5 mg, taken at approximately the same time every day, without regard to timing of sexual activity. 2.5 Use with Food CIALIS may be taken without regard to food. 2.6 Use in Specific Populations Renal Impairment CIALIS for Use as Needed Creatinine clearance 30 to 50 mL/min: A starting dose of 5 mg not more than once per day is recommended, and the maximum dose is 10 mg not more than once in every 48 hours. Creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min or on hemodialysis: The maximum dose is 5 mg not more than once in every 72 hours [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.7 )] . CIALIS for Once Daily Use Erectile Dysfunction Creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min or on hemodialysis: CIALIS for once daily use is not recommended [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.7 )] . Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Erectile Dysfunction/Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Creatinine clearance 30 to 50 mL/min: A starting dose of 2.5 mg is recommended. An increase to 5 mg may be considered based on individual response. Creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min or on hemodialysis: CIALIS for once daily use is not recommended [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.7 )] . Hepatic Impairment CIALIS for Use as Needed Mild or moderate (Child Pugh Class A or B): The dose should not exceed 10 mg once per day. The use of CIALIS once per day has not been extensively evaluated in patients with hepatic impairment and therefore, caution is advised. Severe (Child Pugh Class C): The use of CIALIS is not recommended [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.6 )] . CIALIS for Once Daily Use Mild or moderate (Child Pugh Class A or B): CIALIS for once daily use has not been extensively evaluated in patients with hepatic impairment. Therefore, c …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Three strengths of almond-shaped tablets are available in different sizes and different shades of yellow: 5 mg tablets debossed with “C 5” 10 mg tablets debossed with “C 10” 20 mg tablets debossed with “C 20” Tablets: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg ( 3 ).

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Administration of CIALIS to patients using any form of organic nitrate is contraindicated. CIALIS was shown to potentiate the hypotensive effect of nitrates ( 4.1 ). History of known serious hypersensitivity reaction to CIALIS or ADCIRCA ® ( 4.2 ). Administration with guanylate cyclase (GC) stimulators, such as riociguat ( 4.3 ). 4.1 Nitrates Administration of CIALIS to patients who are using any form of organic nitrate, either regularly and/or intermittently, is contraindicated. In clinical pharmacology studies, CIALIS was shown to potentiate the hypotensive effect of nitrates [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . 4.2 Hypersensitivity Reactions CIALIS is contraindicated in patients with a known serious hypersensitivity to tadalafil (CIALIS or ADCIRCA ® ). Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and exfoliative dermatitis [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . 4.3 Concomitant Guanylate Cyclase (GC) Stimulators Do not use CIALIS in patients who are using a GC stimulator, such as riociguat. PDE5 inhibitors, including CIALIS, may potentiate the hypotensive effects of GC stimulators.

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Evaluation of erectile dysfunction and BPH should include an appropriate medical assessment to identify potential underlying causes, as well as treatment options. Before prescribing CIALIS, it is important to note the following: Patients should not use CIALIS if sex is inadvisable due to cardiovascular status ( 5.1 ). Use of CIALIS with alpha-blockers, antihypertensives or substantial amounts of alcohol (≥5 units) may lead to hypotension ( 5.6 , 5.9 ). CIALIS is not recommended in combination with alpha-blockers for the treatment of BPH because efficacy of the combination has not been adequately studied and because of the risk of blood pressure lowering. Caution is advised when CIALIS is used as a treatment for ED in men taking alpha-blockers. ( 2.7 , 5.6 , 7.1 , 12.2 ) Patients should seek emergency treatment if an erection lasts >4 hours. Use CIALIS with caution in patients predisposed to priapism ( 5.3 ). Patients should stop CIALIS and seek medical care if a sudden loss of vision occurs in one or both eyes, which could be a sign of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). CIALIS should be used with caution, and only when the anticipated benefits outweigh the risks, in patients with a history of NAION. Patients with a "crowded" optic disc may also be at an increased risk of NAION ( 5.4 , 6.2 ). Patients should stop CIALIS and seek prompt medical attention in the event of sudden decrease or loss of hearing ( 5.5 ). Prior to initiating treatment with CIALIS for BPH, consideration should be given to other urological conditions that may cause similar symptoms ( 5.14 ). 5.1 Cardiovascular Physicians should consider the cardiovascular status of their patients, since there is a degree of cardiac risk associated with sexual activity. Therefore, treatments for erectile dysfunction, including CIALIS, should not be used in men for whom sexual activity is inadvisable as a result of their underlying cardiovascular status. Patients who experience symptoms upon initiation of sexual activity should be advised to refrain from further sexual activity and seek immediate medical attention. Physicians should discuss with patients the appropriate action in the event that they experience anginal chest pain requiring nitroglycerin following intake of CIALIS. In such a patient, who has taken CIALIS, where nitrate administration is deemed medically necessary for a life-threatening situation, at least 48 hours should have elapsed after the last dose of CIALIS before nitrate administration is considered. In such circumstances, nitrates should still only be administered under close medical supervision with appropriate hemodynamic monitoring. Therefore, patients who experience anginal chest pain after taking CIALIS should seek immediate medical attention. [see Contraindications ( 4.1 ) and Patient Counseling Information ( 17.1 )] . Patients with left ventricular outflow obstruction, (e.g., aortic stenosis and idiopathic hypertrophic subaortic stenosis) can be sensitive to the action of vasodilators, including PDE5 inhibitors. The following groups of patients with cardiovascular disease were not included in clinical safety and efficacy trials for CIALIS, and therefore until further information is available, CIALIS is not recommended for the following groups of patients: myocardial infarction within the last 90 days unstable angina or angina occurring during sexual intercourse New York Heart Association Class 2 or greater heart failure in the last 6 months uncontrolled arrhythmias, hypotension (<90/50 mm Hg), or uncontrolled hypertension stroke within the last 6 months. As with other PDE5 inhibitors, tadalafil has mild systemic vasodilatory properties that may result in transient decreases in blood pressure. In a clinical pharmacology study, tadalafil 20 mg resulted in a mean maximal decrease in supine blood pressure, relative to placebo, of 1.6/0.8 mm Hg in healthy subjects [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS Most common adverse reactions (≥2%) include headache, dyspepsia, back pain, myalgia, nasal congestion, flushing, and pain in limb ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Tadalafil was administered to over 9000 men during clinical trials worldwide. In trials of CIALIS for once daily use, a total of 1434, 905, and 115 were treated for at least 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years, respectively. For CIALIS for use as needed, over 1300 and 1000 subjects were treated for at least 6 months and 1 year, respectively. CIALIS for Use as Needed for ED In eight primary placebo-controlled clinical studies of 12 weeks duration, mean age was 59 years (range 22 to 88) and the discontinuation rate due to adverse events in patients treated with tadalafil 10 or 20 mg was 3.1%, compared to 1.4% in placebo treated patients. When taken as recommended in the placebo-controlled clinical trials, the following adverse reactions were reported ( see Table 1 ) for CIALIS for use as needed: Table 1: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥2% of Patients Treated with CIALIS (10 or 20 mg) and More Frequent on Drug than Placebo in the Eight Primary Placebo-Controlled Clinical Studies (Including a Study in Patients with Diabetes) for CIALIS for Use as Needed for ED a The term flushing includes: facial flushing and flushing Adverse Reaction Placebo (N=476) Tadalafil 5 mg (N=151) Tadalafil 10 mg (N=394) Tadalafil 20 mg (N=635) Headache 5% 11% 11% 15% Dyspepsia 1% 4% 8% 10% Back pain 3% 3% 5% 6% Myalgia 1% 1% 4% 3% Nasal congestion 1% 2% 3% 3% Flushing a 1% 2% 3% 3% Pain in limb 1% 1% 3% 3% CIALIS for Once Daily Use for ED In three placebo-controlled clinical trials of 12 or 24 weeks duration, mean age was 58 years (range 21 to 82) and the discontinuation rate due to adverse events in patients treated with tadalafil was 4.1%, compared to 2.8% in placebo-treated patients. The following adverse reactions were reported ( see Table 2 ) in clinical trials of 12 weeks duration: Table 2: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥2% of Patients Treated with CIALIS for Once Daily Use (2.5 or 5 mg) and More Frequent on Drug than Placebo in the Three Primary Placebo-Controlled Phase 3 Studies of 12 weeks Treatment Duration (Including a Study in Patients with Diabetes) for CIALIS for Once Daily Use for ED Adverse Reaction Placebo (N=248) Tadalafil 2.5 mg (N=196) Tadalafil 5 mg (N=304) Headache 5% 3% 6% Dyspepsia 2% 4% 5% Nasopharyngitis 4% 4% 3% Back pain 1% 3% 3% Upper respiratory tract infection 1% 3% 3% Flushing 1% 1% 3% Myalgia 1% 2% 2% Cough 0% 4% 2% Diarrhea 0% 1% 2% Nasal congestion 0% 2% 2% Pain in extremity 0% 1% 2% Urinary tract infection 0% 2% 0% Gastroesophageal reflux disease 0% 2% 1% Abdominal pain 0% 2% 1% The following adverse reactions were reported ( see Table 3 ) over 24 weeks treatment duration in one placebo-controlled clinical study: Table 3: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥2% of Patients Treated with CIALIS for Once Daily Use (2.5 or 5 mg) and More Frequent on Drug than Placebo in One Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study of 24 Weeks Treatment Duration for CIALIS for Once Daily Use for ED Adverse Reaction Placebo (N=94) Tadalafil 2.5 mg (N=96) Tadalafil 5 mg (N=97) Nasopharyngitis 5% 6% 6% Gastroenteritis 2% 3% 5% Back pain 3% 5% 2% Upper respiratory tract infection 0% 3% 4% Dyspepsia 1% 4% 1% Gastroesophageal reflux disease 0% 3% 2% Myalgia 2% 4% 1% Hypertension 0% 1% 3% Nasal congestion 0% 0% 4% CIALIS for Once Daily Use for BPH and for ED and BPH In three placebo-controlled clinical trials of 12 w …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS CIALIS can potentiate the hypotensive effects of nitrates, alpha-blockers, antihypertensives or alcohol ( 7.1 ). CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g. ketoconazole, ritonavir) increase CIALIS exposure ( 2.7 , 5.10 , 7.2 ) requiring dose adjustment: CIALIS for use as needed: no more than 10 mg every 72 hours CIALIS for once daily use: dose not to exceed 2.5 mg CYP3A4 inducers (e.g. rifampin) decrease CIALIS exposure ( 7.2 ). 7.1 Potential for Pharmacodynamic Interactions with CIALIS Nitrates — Administration of CIALIS to patients who are using any form of organic nitrate, is contraindicated. In clinical pharmacology studies, CIALIS was shown to potentiate the hypotensive effect of nitrates. In a patient who has taken CIALIS, where nitrate administration is deemed medically necessary in a life-threatening situation, at least 48 hours should elapse after the last dose of CIALIS before nitrate administration is considered. In such circumstances, nitrates should still only be administered under close medical supervision with appropriate hemodynamic monitoring [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 ), Contraindications ( 4.1 ), and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Alpha-Blockers — Caution is advised when PDE5 inhibitors are coadministered with alpha-blockers. PDE5 inhibitors, including CIALIS, and alpha-adrenergic blocking agents are both vasodilators with blood-pressure-lowering effects. When vasodilators are used in combination, an additive effect on blood pressure may be anticipated. Clinical pharmacology studies have been conducted with coadministration of tadalafil with doxazosin, tamsulosin or alfuzosin. [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ), and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Antihypertensives — PDE5 inhibitors, including tadalafil, are mild systemic vasodilators. Clinical pharmacology studies were conducted to assess the effect of tadalafil on the potentiation of the blood-pressure-lowering effects of selected antihypertensive medications (amlodipine, angiotensin II receptor blockers, bendrofluazide, enalapril, and metoprolol). Small reductions in blood pressure occurred following coadministration of tadalafil with these agents compared with placebo. [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Alcohol — Both alcohol and tadalafil, a PDE5 inhibitor, act as mild vasodilators. When mild vasodilators are taken in combination, blood-pressure-lowering effects of each individual compound may be increased. Substantial consumption of alcohol (e.g., 5 units or greater) in combination with CIALIS can increase the potential for orthostatic signs and symptoms, including increase in heart rate, decrease in standing blood pressure, dizziness, and headache. Tadalafil did not affect alcohol plasma concentrations and alcohol did not affect tadalafil plasma concentrations. [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . 7.2 Potential for Other Drugs to Affect CIALIS [See Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] . Antacids — Simultaneous administration of an antacid (magnesium hydroxide/aluminum hydroxide) and tadalafil reduced the apparent rate of absorption of tadalafil without altering exposure (AUC) to tadalafil. H 2 Antagonists (e.g. Nizatidine) — An increase in gastric pH resulting from administration of nizatidine had no significant effect on pharmacokinetics. Cytochrome P450 Inhibitors — CIALIS is a substrate of and predominantly metabolized by CYP3A4. Studies have shown that drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 can increase tadalafil exposure. CYP3A4 (e.g., Ketoconazole) — Ketoconazole (400 mg daily), a selective and potent inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased tadalafil 20 mg single-dose exposure (AUC) by 312% and C max by 22%, relative to the values for tadalafil 20 mg alone. Ketoconazole (200 mg daily) increased tadalafil 10-mg single-dose exposure (AUC) by 107% and C max by 15%, relative to the values for tadalafil 1 …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Hepatic Impairment ( 2.6 , 5.8 , 8.6 ): Mild or Moderate: Dosage adjustment may be needed. Severe: Use is not recommended. Renal Impairment ( 2.6 , 5.7 , 8.7 ): Patients with creatinine clearance 30 to 50 mL/min: Dosage adjustment may be needed. Patients with creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min or on hemodialysis: For use as needed: Dose should not exceed 5 mg every 72 hours. Once daily use is not recommended. 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary CIALIS (tadalafil) is not indicated for use in females. There are no data with the use of CIALIS in pregnant women to inform any drug-associated risks for adverse developmental outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental effects were observed with oral administration of tadalafil to pregnant rats or mice during organogenesis at exposures up to 11 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 20 mg/day ( see Data). Data Animal Data Animal reproduction studies showed no evidence of teratogenicity, embryotoxicity, or fetotoxicity when tadalafil was given orally to pregnant rats or mice at exposures up to 11 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 20 mg/day during organogenesis. In a prenatal/postnatal developmental study in rats, postnatal pup survival decreased following maternal exposure to tadalafil doses greater than 10 times the MRHD based on AUC. Signs of maternal toxicity occurred at doses greater than 16 times the MRHD based on AUC. Surviving offspring had normal development and reproductive performance. In another rat prenatal and postnatal development study at doses of 60, 200, and 1000 mg/kg, a reduction in postnatal survival of pups was observed. The no observed effect level (NOEL) for maternal toxicity was 200 mg/kg/day and for developmental toxicity was 30 mg/kg/day. This gives approximately 16 and 10 fold exposure multiples, respectively, of the human AUC for the MRHD of 20 mg. Tadalafil and/or its metabolites cross the placenta, resulting in fetal exposure in rats. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary CIALIS is not indicated for use in females. There is no information on the presence of tadalafil and/or metabolites in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. Tadalafil and/or its metabolites are present in the milk of lactating rats at concentrations approximately 2.4-fold greater than found in the plasma. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Infertility Based on the data from 3 studies in adult males, tadalafil decreased sperm concentrations in the study of 10 mg tadalafil for 6 months and the study of 20 mg tadalafil for 9 months. This effect was not seen in the study of 20 mg tadalafil taken for 6 months. There was no adverse effect of tadalafil 10 mg or 20 mg on mean concentrations of testosterone, luteinizing hormone or follicle stimulating hormone. The clinical significance of the decreased sperm concentrations in the two studies is unknown. There have been no studies evaluating the effect of tadalafil on fertility in men [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Based on studies in animals, a decrease in spermatogenesis was observed in dogs, but not in rats [see Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )] . 8.4 Pediatric Use CIALIS is not indicated for use in pediatric patients. Safety and efficacy in patients below the age of 18 years have not been established. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in pediatric patients (7 to 14 years of age) with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, who received CIALIS 0.3 mg/kg, CIALIS 0.6 mg/kg, or placebo daily for 48 weeks failed to demonstrate any benefit of treatment with CIALIS on a range of assessments of muscle strength and performance. Juvenile Animal Study No adverse effects were observed in a study in which tadalafil was administered orally at doses of 60, 200, and 1000 mg/kg/day to juvenile rats on postnatal days 14 to 90. The highest plasma tadalafil exposures (AUC) achieved were approximately 10-fold that observed at …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Penile erection during sexual stimulation is caused by increased penile blood flow resulting from the relaxation of penile arteries and corpus cavernosal smooth muscle. This response is mediated by the release of nitric oxide (NO) from nerve terminals and endothelial cells, which stimulates the synthesis of cGMP in smooth muscle cells. Cyclic GMP causes smooth muscle relaxation and increased blood flow into the corpus cavernosum. The inhibition of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enhances erectile function by increasing the amount of cGMP. Tadalafil inhibits PDE5. Because sexual stimulation is required to initiate the local release of nitric oxide, the inhibition of PDE5 by tadalafil has no effect in the absence of sexual stimulation. The effect of PDE5 inhibition on cGMP concentration in the corpus cavernosum and pulmonary arteries is also observed in the smooth muscle of the prostate, the bladder and their vascular supply. The mechanism for reducing BPH symptoms has not been established. Studies in vitro have demonstrated that tadalafil is a selective inhibitor of PDE5. PDE5 is found in the smooth muscle of the corpus cavernosum, prostate, and bladder as well as in vascular and visceral smooth muscle, skeletal muscle, urethra, platelets, kidney, lung, cerebellum, heart, liver, testis, seminal vesicle, and pancreas. In vitro studies have shown that the effect of tadalafil is more potent on PDE5 than on other phosphodiesterases. These studies have shown that tadalafil is >10,000-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE1, PDE2, PDE4, and PDE7 enzymes, which are found in the heart, brain, blood vessels, liver, leukocytes, skeletal muscle, and other organs. Tadalafil is >10,000-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE3, an enzyme found in the heart and blood vessels. Additionally, tadalafil is 700-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE6, which is found in the retina and is responsible for phototransduction. Tadalafil is >9,000-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE8, PDE9, and PDE10. Tadalafil is 14-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE11A1 and 40-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE11A4, two of the four known forms of PDE11. PDE11 is an enzyme found in human prostate, testes, skeletal muscle and in other tissues (e.g., adrenal cortex). In vitro , tadalafil inhibits human recombinant PDE11A1 and, to a lesser degree, PDE11A4 activities at concentrations within the therapeutic range. The physiological role and clinical consequence of PDE11 inhibition in humans have not been defined.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION CIALIS (tadalafil) is a selective inhibitor of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-specific phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). Tadalafil has the empirical formula C 22 H 19 N 3 O 4 representing a molecular weight of 389.41. The structural formula is: The chemical designation is pyrazino[1 ́,2 ́:1,6]pyrido[3,4-b]indole-1,4-dione, 6-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2,3,6,7,12,12a-hexahydro-2-methyl-, (6R,12aR)-. It is a crystalline solid that is practically insoluble in water and very slightly soluble in ethanol. CIALIS is available as almond-shaped tablets for oral administration. Each tablet contains 5, 10, or 20 mg of tadalafil and the following inactive ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose, iron oxide, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium lauryl sulfate, talc, titanium dioxide, and triacetin. Chemical Structure

10 OVERDOSAGE Single doses up to 500 mg have been given to healthy subjects, and multiple daily doses up to 100 mg have been given to patients. Adverse events were similar to those seen at lower doses. In cases of overdose, standard supportive measures should be adopted as required. Hemodialysis contributes negligibly to tadalafil elimination.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING 16.1 How Supplied CIALIS (tadalafil) is supplied as follows: Three strengths of almond-shaped tablets are available in different sizes and different shades of yellow, and supplied in the following package sizes: 5 mg tablets debossed with “C 5” Bottles of 30 NDC 0002-4462-30 10 mg tablets debossed with “C 10” Bottles of 30 NDC 0002-4463-30 20 mg tablets debossed with “C 20” Bottles of 30 NDC 0002-4464-30 16.2 Storage Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Keep out of reach of children.

16.1 How Supplied CIALIS (tadalafil) is supplied as follows: Three strengths of almond-shaped tablets are available in different sizes and different shades of yellow, and supplied in the following package sizes: 5 mg tablets debossed with “C 5” Bottles of 30 NDC 0002-4462-30 10 mg tablets debossed with “C 10” Bottles of 30 NDC 0002-4463-30 20 mg tablets debossed with “C 20” Bottles of 30 NDC 0002-4464-30

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
99,573
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: TADALAFIL. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
0002-4462-30 0002-4462 Eli Lilly and Company 30 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0002-4462-30) November 26, 2003
0002-4463-30 0002-4463 Eli Lilly and Company 30 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0002-4463-30) November 26, 2003
0002-4464-30 0002-4464 Eli Lilly and Company 30 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0002-4464-30) November 26, 2003
0002-4462 0002-4462 Eli Lilly and Company — November 26, 2003
0002-4463 0002-4463 Eli Lilly and Company — November 26, 2003
0002-4464 0002-4464 Eli Lilly and Company — November 26, 2003

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts

Generated September 25, 2026 · 11 sections on this page.