What is the brand name for Tadalafil?
The brand name for Tadalafil is Cialis.
PTCE Top 200 · #198
Tadalafil
Cialis
Tadalafil is the generic name for the brand-name drug Cialis. It is a pde5 inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction, BPH. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Tadalafil ranks #198 and is one of the most frequently tested genitourinary medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Tadalafil |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Cialis |
| Drug class | PDE5 inhibitor |
| Class group | Genitourinary |
| Common use | erectile dysfunction, BPH |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Tadalafil used for?
Treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED); treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms; and pulmonary arterial hypertension for certain strengths/forms (product-specific).
What drug class is Tadalafil?
Tadalafil is a PDE5 inhibitor in the Genitourinary group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Tadalafil
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightFlushing
- arrow_rightIndigestion (dyspepsia)
- arrow_rightBack pain
- arrow_rightMuscle aches
- arrow_rightNasal congestion
Major interactions
- arrow_rightNitrates (contraindicated; severe hypotension)
- arrow_rightRiociguat (contraindicated; hypotension)
- arrow_rightAlpha blockers (e.g., doxazosin) can cause hypotension—use caution
- arrow_rightStrong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) increase tadalafil levels
- arrow_rightCYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin) decrease tadalafil levels
Is Tadalafil a controlled substance?
No. Tadalafil is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Tadalafil (PTCE mnemonic)
CIA-lis lasts CIA-stronger (~36hr) — tadalaFIL is the LONGEST PDE5 (the 'weekend pill'). Daily-dose option for BPH/ED; NEVER with NITRATES (fatal hypotension); caution with α-blockers.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Tadalafil is the long-game PDE5 inhibitor (~36 hours — hence the daily low-dose option that also treats BPH). The nitrate contraindication is absolute, same as sildenafil.
Tadalafil FAQ
What is Tadalafil used for?
Tadalafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction, BPH. Treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED); treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms; and pulmonary arterial hypertension for certain strengths/forms (product-specific).
What drug class is Tadalafil?
Tadalafil is a PDE5 inhibitor (Genitourinary group).
Is Tadalafil a controlled substance?
No. Tadalafil is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Genitourinary group
Drill Tadalafil the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).