If you’ve heard of Cialis and are curious about its other names, especially in Australia, you’re not alone. Cialis is a well-known medication prescribed for erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, the name “Cialis” is actually the brand name for the active ingredient tadalafil. This blog post unpacks the different names Cialis goes by in Australia and worldwide, helping you better understand what you might encounter when discussing or purchasing this medication in 2025.
The Active Ingredient: Tadalafil
The primary name you should know is tadalafil. Cialis is simply the brand name under which tadalafil is marketed by the pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly. In Australia, tadalafil is the generic name used in medical settings and pharmacies.
- Tadalafil is the chemical compound responsible for the effects of Cialis.
- It belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which improve blood flow to help achieve and maintain an erection.
Brand Names and Generic Versions in Australia
While Cialis is the most recognized brand, tadalafil is also available in generic forms, which are often more affordable but contain the same active ingredient. Some common names you might encounter include:
- Cialis (brand name by Eli Lilly)
- Generic Tadalafil (sold under various labels by different manufacturers)
- Vidalista (a popular generic brand available internationally and sometimes in Australia)
- Other generic brands such as Tadarise, Tadacip, or Tadalis may be found online or through international suppliers but should be approached cautiously and only purchased through legitimate Australian pharmacies.
Why Are There Different Names?
Pharmaceutical companies market the same active ingredient under different brand names. Generic versions become available once the original patent expires, allowing other manufacturers to produce the same medication under different names but with identical effects.
What About Other Similar Medications?
Other PDE5 inhibitors used for ED include:
- Sildenafil (brand name Viagra)
- Vardenafil (brand name Levitra)
- Avanafil (brand name Spedra)
These are different drugs but work in a similar way to tadalafil.
Important Safety Note
The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) warns consumers to be cautious of counterfeit or unapproved products sold online under names like “Lieel Icos Cialis” or unusually high-dose tadalafil tablets (e.g., 80mg or 100mg), which are illegal and potentially dangerous.
Always buy tadalafil or Cialis from registered Australian pharmacies with a valid prescription to ensure safety and authenticity.
Summary
| Name Type | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Cialis | Marketed by Eli Lilly |
| Generic Name | Tadalafil | Active ingredient |
| Generic Brands | Vidalista, Tadarise, Tadacip | Same active ingredient, various manufacturers |
| Other PDE5 Inhibitors | Sildenafil (Viagra), Vardenafil (Levitra), Avanafil (Spedra) | Different drugs for ED |
In Australia, Cialis and tadalafil refer to the same medication, with Cialis being the brand name and tadalafil the generic name. Generic tadalafil products offer the same benefits as Cialis but often at a lower cost. Always ensure you obtain these medications through legitimate channels to guarantee safety and effectiveness.