Cialis Extra Dosage (Tadalafil) vs. Other ED Meds: Detailed Comparison

ED Medication Comparison Tool
When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction (ED), the market is flooded with pills, dosages, and brand names. One of the newer options you might see is Cialis extra dosage, a higher‑strength version of the well‑known tadalafil tablet. But does a bigger dose automatically mean a better experience? This article breaks down the extra‑strength Cialis, compares it side‑by‑side with the most popular alternatives, and gives you a practical decision guide.
Key Takeaways
- Cialis extra dosage delivers 20mg of tadalafil, offering a faster onset and longer window than the standard 10mg tablet.
- Generic tadalafil 20mg provides the same active ingredient at a lower price, though brand‑name consistency can differ.
- Viagra (sildenafil) works faster but wears off sooner, making it better for planned, short‑term use.
- Levitra (vardenafil) and Stendra (avanafil) sit between Viagra and Cialis in terms of onset and duration.
- Choosing the right ED medication depends on timing needs, budget, side‑effect tolerance, and whether you prefer a daily low‑dose regimen.
What Is Cialis Extra Dosage?
Cialis extra dosage is a high‑strength formulation of tadalafil that contains 20mg of the active ingredient per tablet. It was introduced to give men who need a stronger or longer‑lasting effect an option without having to double up on standard 10mg pills. The extra dose shortens the onset time to roughly 30‑45minutes and can maintain an erection‑supporting environment for up to 36hours, depending on individual metabolism.
Because the molecule is the same as the original Cialis, it shares the same safety profile, but the higher amount raises the likelihood of mild side effects such as headache, flushing, or upset stomach.

Standard Cialis vs. Extra Dosage
The original Cialis tablet is typically prescribed at 10mg or 20mg, taken as needed before sexual activity. The “extra dosage” label simply signals that the pill is the 20mg strength, but it’s marketed as a distinct product to stress its longer window and faster action. For most men, the 10mg dose works fine; the 20mg version is reserved for those who find the lower dose insufficient or who want that extra safety net of a longer effective period.
Top Alternatives on the Market
Below are the main competitors you’ll encounter when shopping for an ED remedy. Each entry includes its first‑time microdata markup.
Generic tadalafil 20mg is the non‑brand version of the same active ingredient found in Cialis extra dosage. It costs less per tablet and is available from many online UK pharmacies, but manufacturers differ in filler composition, which can affect tolerability for some users.
Viagra (sildenafil) is the oldest modern ED pill. A typical dose is 50mg taken 30‑60minutes before intercourse, with an effect lasting about 4‑6hours.
Levitra (vardenafil) works similarly to Viagra but can be taken with a slightly higher‑fat meal without losing effectiveness. The usual dose is 10mg, lasting around 5‑8hours.
Stendra (avanafil) is the newest entrant, known for an ultra‑quick onset-sometimes as fast as 15minutes. A 100mg dose provides a window of 4‑6hours.
Cialis Daily is a low‑dose (2.5mg or 5mg) formulation taken every day. It’s not a “need‑before‑sex” pill, but it ensures a constant baseline of tadalafil in the system, making spontaneous activity possible at any time.
Cialis Standard refers to the 10mg as‑needed tablet that most men start with before considering a higher dose.
Side‑by‑Side Comparison
Attribute | Cialis Extra Dosage (20mg) | Generic Tadalafil 20mg | Viagra (50mg) | Levitra (10mg) | Stendra (100mg) | Cialis Daily (5mg) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Onset | 30‑45min | 30‑45min | 30‑60min | 30‑60min | 15‑30min | 30‑60min (steady state) |
Duration | 24‑36hours | 24‑36hours | 4‑6hours | 5‑8hours | 4‑6hours | Daily steady level (continuous) |
Typical Cost (UK, per tablet) | £1.70‑£2.20 | £0.90‑£1.30 | £0.80‑£1.20 | £0.85‑£1.25 | £2.00‑£2.60 | £0.35‑£0.60 (monthly supply) |
Prescription Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Key Side‑Effects | Headache, flushing, dyspepsia | Same as brand | Visual changes, headache | Back pain, dizziness | Rare allergic reactions, headache | Rare, generally well‑tolerated |
Best For | Long‑lasting spontaneity, higher potency | Budget‑friendly high potency | Planned, short‑term encounters | Meals with moderate fat, mid‑range duration | Rapid onset, low‑dose flexibility | Daily sexual activity without timing pills |

How to Choose the Right Option
Deciding which pill fits your lifestyle comes down to three practical questions:
- When do you need the effect? If you want a window that covers a whole weekend or you dislike planning, a 20mg tadalafil (Cialis extra dosage or generic) is unbeatable. If you only need a quick boost for a single night, Viagra or Stendra may be more cost‑effective.
- What’s your budget? Generic tadalafil and generic sildenafil are usually the cheapest per dose. Brand‑name Stendra commands a premium for its rapid action.
- How sensitive are you to side effects? Higher doses raise the chance of headache and flushing. Men with cardiovascular concerns should discuss any PDE‑5 inhibitor with their GP before taking a 20mg tablet.
For most first‑time users, starting with the standard 10mg Cialis or a 50mg Viagra is sensible. If those don’t deliver, step up to the 20mg version or switch to an alternative with a different onset profile.
Safety Tips and Common Concerns
All PDE‑5 inhibitors-including Cialis extra dosage-share a core safety rule: never combine them with nitrates (often prescribed for chest pain) because the combo can cause a dangerous blood‑pressure drop.
Other practical advice:
- Take the tablet with a full glass of water; food doesn’t drastically affect tadalafil but a high‑fat meal can slow sildenafil and vardenafil.
- Give the drug at least 24hours before trying again to avoid cumulative side effects.
- If you experience prolonged erection (>4hours), seek medical help immediately-this is rare but serious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cialis extra dosage the same as taking two 10mg Cialis pills?
Pharmacologically, yes-both deliver 20mg of tadalafil. The single‑tablet format reduces pill‑count hassle and may have slightly different excipients that affect absorption, but the effect is essentially the same.
Can I switch from Viagra to Cialis extra dosage without a doctor’s review?
Both drugs require a prescription in the UK. Switching should be discussed with a GP because dosage, timing, and contraindications differ.
How does the cost of Cialis extra dosage compare to a month’s supply of generic tadalafil?
A 20mg brand tablet typically costs £1.80-£2.20. Buying a 30‑day pack of generic tadalafil 20mg can drop the per‑tablet price to around £0.95, saving up to £35 a month.
Will taking Cialis extra dosage every day cause tolerance?
Tolerance isn’t a major issue because the drug’s mechanism doesn’t build resistance. However, daily dosing is usually done with the low‑dose (2.5mg or 5mg) version, not the 20mg strength.
Are there any foods or drinks that I should avoid with the 20mg Cialis?
Alcohol in excess can worsen flushing and lower blood pressure, making side effects more noticeable. Light to moderate drinking is generally safe.
Odin Zifer
October 8, 2025 AT 20:59Wake up people the pharmaceutical lobby is pushing these 20mg pills to keep us dependent the government knows the side effects are being hidden