When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction, Tadalis SX is a brand‑name tablet that contains 20mg of tadalafil, a PDE5 inhibitor approved for daily or as‑needed use. If you’ve tried it or are shopping around, you’re probably asking how it stacks up against other popular options like Cialis, Levitra, Stendra, or even the older sildenafil tablets. This guide breaks down the science, dosage, safety, cost and convenience so you can decide which pill fits your lifestyle best.
Quick Takeaways
- Tadalis SX delivers a stable 20mg dose of tadalafil, offering up to 36‑hour effectiveness.
- Cialis (brand tadalafil) provides the same active ingredient but comes in a wider dose range (2.5‑20mg) and a daily low‑dose option.
- Levitra (vardenafil) and Stendra (avanafil) work faster (30‑45min) but have a shorter window (4‑6hrs).
- Sildenafil (Viagra) is the oldest option, cheap but limited to 4‑5hrs.
- Consider regulatory approval, side‑effect profile and price when choosing.
How Tadalafil Works - The PDE5 Inhibitor Story
Tadalafil belongs to the PDE5 inhibitor class. These drugs block the phosphodiesterase‑5 enzyme, which normally breaks down cyclic GMP in penile tissue. By keeping cyclic GMP levels high, blood vessels relax and blood flow improves, enabling an erection when sexual stimulation occurs. The key advantage of tadalafil over other PDE5 inhibitors is its long half‑life (≈17hours), which translates to a longer “ready window" for spontaneous intimacy.
Head‑to‑Head Comparison Table
Attribute | Tadalis SX | Cialis (brand) | Levitra (vardenafil) | Stendra (avanafil) | Sildenafil (Viagra) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Active ingredient | Tadalafil 20mg | Tadalafil 2.5‑20mg | Vardenafil 10‑20mg | Avanafil 50‑200mg | Sildenafil 25‑100mg |
Onset of action | 30‑60min | 30‑60min | 30‑45min | 15‑30min | 30‑60min |
Effective window | Up to 36hrs | Up to 36hrs (daily 2.5mg option) | 4‑6hrs | 4‑6hrs | 4‑5hrs |
Prescription status (UK) | Prescription‑only | Prescription‑only | Prescription‑only | Prescription‑only | Prescription‑only |
Common side effects | Headache, dyspepsia, back pain | Same as Tadalis SX | Flushing, nasal congestion | Headache, dizziness | Flushing, visual changes |
Average UK price (per tablet) | ~£1.20 | ~£1.80 (brand) / £0.60 (generic) | ~£1.10 | ~£1.30 | ~£0.50 |

Dosage & Administration Nuances
Because Tadalis SX is sold only in a fixed 20mg dose, you have less flexibility than with brand Cialis, which offers 2.5mg for daily use. If you need occasional dosing, 20mg works for most men, but anyone sensitive to side‑effects may prefer starting at 10mg (which you’d have to obtain via a different brand).
Levitra and Stendra can be taken 30minutes before sex, making them attractive for “planned” encounters. Their shorter window can be a disadvantage for spontaneous moments, but they cause less lingering muscle aches than tadalafil.
Sildenafil requires a full food‑free window of about an hour for optimal absorption; a heavy meal can blunt its effect.
Safety Profile - What to Watch For
All PDE5 inhibitors share a core safety checklist: no use with nitrates, caution with certain antihypertensives, and avoidance in severe heart disease. FDA and the UK MHRA have flagged rare cases of sudden vision loss (NAION) and hearing loss across the class. Tadalafil’s longer half‑life means any side‑effect may linger longer, so start with a low dose if you’re new.
Common side‑effects for Tadalis SX include mild headache, indigestion, and back pain that usually fades after a few days. Cialis reports the same profile; Levitra tends to cause more flushing, while Stendra’s faster onset can bring a brief dizzy spell.

Cost, Availability & Insurance
In the UK, generic tadalafil (the chemical behind TadalisSX) is widely available from community pharmacies, often at lower cost than the branded version. However, tadalissx may be marketed as a “premium” product with tighter supply chains, driving a slightly higher price per tablet. Insurance plans that cover NHS prescriptions treat all generic tadalafil equally, so the brand choice rarely affects reimbursement.
If you shop online, be wary of unlicensed sellers. Always verify that the product is approved by the MHRA to avoid counterfeit pills that can contain dangerous fillers.
Choosing the Right Option - Quick Decision Tree
- If you need a long “window” for spontaneous intimacy, stick with TadalisSX or brand Cialis.
- If you prefer a daily low‑dose habit (2.5mg), brand Cialis is the only option.
- If you value rapid onset (under 30min) and don’t mind a 4‑hour window, try Stendra or Levitra.
- If budget is the primary driver, generic sildenafil or generic tadalafil (other brands) are cheapest.
- If you have a history of back pain or muscle aches after tadalafil, consider switching to vardenafil or avanafil.
Remember, personal response varies-what works for one man may feel sub‑par for another. Keep a short diary of dose, timing, side‑effects and satisfaction to fine‑tune your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take Tadalis SX with alcohol?
Moderate alcohol (up to two drinks) generally does not interfere with tadalafil’s effectiveness, but heavy drinking can lower blood pressure and increase the risk of dizziness.
How does Tadalis SX differ from generic tadalafil?
Chemically they are identical. The difference lies in branding, packaging and sometimes the excipients used, which can affect how quickly the tablet dissolves for some users.
Is it safe to combine Tadalis SX with antihypertensive medication?
Most blood‑pressure drugs are safe to use with tadalafil, but you should monitor for a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially if you’re on alpha‑blockers.
What should I do if I experience prolonged erection (priapism)?
Seek medical attention immediately. Although rare with tadalafil, priapism is a medical emergency that can cause permanent tissue damage.
Can women use Tadalis SX for sexual dysfunction?
Tadalafil is not approved for female sexual dysfunction. Off‑label use is not recommended without specialist guidance.
Bottom line: TadalisSX offers a solid, long‑lasting dose of tadalafil, making it a go‑to for men who value flexibility. Weigh its price and side‑effect profile against faster‑acting alternatives like Levitra or Stendra, and against cheaper generics if cost is a concern. With a clear understanding of how each drug works, you can pick the one that matches your timing, tolerance and budget.
1 Comments
Kelly Diglio
October 12 2025
Thank you for the thorough breakdown of Tadalis SX and its alternatives. The comparison table is especially helpful for visualizing the differences in dosage and onset times. I appreciate the emphasis on individual variability and the suggestion to keep a diary of effects; that practical advice can really aid in personalizing treatment. Additionally, the safety considerations regarding nitrates and antihypertensives are crucial for many patients. Overall, the guide balances scientific detail with accessible language, which is commendable.