Onset Time: 30-60 minutes
Duration: Up to 36 hours
Average Price: $12-$15 per tablet
Active Ingredient: Tadalafil
Common Side Effects: Headache, indigestion, back pain
Best For: Longer-lasting effects, daily use
Select a medication to see detailed comparison information.
When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction (ED), the market is flooded with options that differ in strength, speed, and cost. If you’ve heard about Cialis extra dosage and wonder whether it really outperforms the usual 20mg dose-or even other brands-this guide breaks everything down. We’ll compare Cialis’s high‑strength version with the most common alternatives, highlight what matters when you pick a pill, and give you a clear action plan.
Cialis Extra Dosage is a high‑strength formulation of tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, typically offered at 30mg or 40mg tablets. It was introduced to give men a stronger dose for days when a single 20mg pill isn’t enough to achieve a firm erection.
The extra dosage isn’t a new drug; it’s the same molecule, just a larger amount per tablet. That means the pharmacokinetics-how quickly it takes effect and how long it lasts-stay the same, but the intensity can increase.
Tadalafil is a phosphodiesterase‑5 (PDE5) inhibitor that relaxes smooth muscle in the penile arteries, allowing more blood to flow during sexual stimulation. It’s the only PDE5 inhibitor that stays active for up to 36hours, earning the nickname “the weekend pill.”
Because Tadalafil works only with sexual arousal, you won’t get an erection just by taking a pill. The drug amplifies the natural nitric‑oxide signal that triggers the blood‑flow response.
Below are the most frequently prescribed ED medications that compete with high‑strength Cialis.
| Medication | Typical Dosage | Onset | Duration | Average U.S. Price (per tablet) | Common Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cialis Extra (30‑40mg) | 30mg or 40mg | 30‑60min | Up to 36hrs | $15‑$20 (brand) | Headache, indigestion, back pain |
| Cialis (20mg) | 20mg | 30‑60min | Up to 36hrs | $12‑$15 (brand) | Same as extra dose, milder |
| Viagra | 25‑100mg | 30‑60min | 4‑6hrs | $10‑$12 (brand) | Flushing, visual changes, headache |
| Levitra | 10‑20mg | 25‑60min | 4‑5hrs | $11‑$13 (brand) | Dizziness, nasal congestion |
| Stendra | 50‑200mg | 15‑30min | 6‑12hrs | $18‑$22 (brand) | Headache, back pain, upset stomach |
| Generic Tadalafil | 2.5‑20mg (varies) | 30‑60min | Up to 36hrs | $5‑$8 | Similar to brand, cheaper |
Higher dosages are not automatically better. Here are the scenarios where a 30mg or 40mg tablet can actually help:
Doctors usually start with the 20mg tablet, then titrate up only if needed. That’s why you’ll often see the extra dosage prescribed after a trial period.
All PDE5 inhibitors share a core safety profile, but the intensity can rise with the dose.
If you experience a sudden vision loss, priapism (erection lasting more than 4hours), or severe chest pain, seek medical attention immediately.
Price is a decisive factor for many men. While brand‑name Cialis extra dosage sits at $15‑$20 per tablet, generic tadalafil of the same strength can be found for $5‑$8 when purchased from reputable online pharmacies.
Most private insurers cover the standard 20mg dose if a doctor writes a justification, but they often consider the extra dosage “off‑label” and may deny coverage. In that case, buying a generic version or switching to a cheaper alternative like Viagra (generic sildenafil) can keep monthly costs under $30.
Online pharmacy platforms usually offer subscription plans that drop the per‑tablet price by 10‑15% after a three‑month commitment.
Use this quick decision tree:
After mapping your answers, you’ll usually land on one or two candidates. Talk to a healthcare provider about the specific dosage and any possible drug interactions.
Most doctors recommend using the higher dose only when you anticipate sexual activity, not as a daily routine. Daily dosing is typically limited to the 2.5‑5mg low‑strength version to maintain steady blood levels while minimizing side effects.
Both drugs are PDE5 inhibitors, so you should wait at least 24hours after a Viagra dose before taking a high‑strength Cialis tablet. This prevents overlapping blood concentrations and reduces the risk of side effects.
Alcohol can dull the response, especially in larger amounts, but it doesn’t nullify the drug. If you plan to drink, a higher dose may help you achieve the desired erection.
Unlike some medications, tadalafil can be taken with or without food. A very fatty meal may delay onset by 30minutes, but the overall effectiveness remains unchanged.
Coverage varies. Many plans deem the 20mg tablet medically necessary and will reimburse it, but the 30‑40mg version is often labeled “off‑label” and may be denied. Check your pharmacy benefits or ask your provider for a prior‑authorization letter.
