Can you buy tadalafil over the counter?

No, tadalafil is a prescription-only treatment in the UK and can only be obtained from regulated pharmacies such as The Independent Pharmacy. Before tadalafil 10mg or tadalafil 20mg can be supplied, you’ll need to complete a discreet online consultation. Our expert pharmacists will check whether the treatment is suitable for you.

Can I buy tadalafil online in the UK?

Yes, you can buy tadalafil online in the UK from a registered online pharmacy after completing a consultation. At The Independent Pharmacy, consultations are discreet, quick and easy. If approved, tadalafil tablets can be delivered directly to your door.

Is 20mg tadalafil equal to 100mg Viagra?

Not exactly. Tadalafil 20mg and Viagra 100mg are different treatments, so the strengths cannot be compared directly. One of the main differences is how long they last. Viagra (sildenafil) usually works for around 4–6 hours, while tadalafil may remain effective for up to 36 hours. Some people prefer tadalafil because the longer duration can make intimacy feel more spontaneous.

Can I drink alcohol with tadalafil?

You can usually drink small amounts of alcohol while taking tadalafil 10mg or tadalafil 20mg. However, drinking too much alcohol can make it harder to get an erection and may increase the risk of side effects like dizziness, headaches or low blood pressure.

What is the difference between tadalafil and other ED treatments?

One of the main differences with tadalafil is how long it may last. While some ED treatments only work for a few hours, tadalafil may remain effective for up to 36 hours, helping intimacy feel more natural and spontaneous. You can also take tadalafil with or without food, giving you more flexibility around your routine and intimate moments. If you’re unsure which ED treatment may suit you best, read our guide to the best erectile dysfunction pills in the UK.

How much time will tadalafil last?

Tadalafil is often known as the “weekend pill” because its effects may last for up to 36 hours after taking a tablet. You still need to be sexually aroused for tadalafil to work.

What happens if tadalafil isn't working the first time I take it?

If tadalafil does not work the first time, try not to panic. For many men, anxiety, timing and alcohol can all affect how well ED treatment works. Tadalafil may take up to an hour to reach its full effect, so taking it too close to intimacy may reduce how well it works. If tadalafil still isn’t working well for you after several attempts, your prescriber may recommend adjusting your dose or exploring another ED treatment with you. There are also simple lifestyle and timing changes that may help treatment work better. Read our guide on how to maximise the benefits of tadalafil.

Which is best? Tadalafil or Viagra?

Tadalafil and Viagra (sildenafil) are both effective ED treatments, but they work slightly differently. Viagra may work slightly faster for some people, while tadalafil lasts longer and may remain effective for up to 36 hours. Some men prefer tadalafil because it can feel less restrictive around timing and planning intimacy. Want a clearer side-by-side comparison? Read our guide to tadalafil vs sildenafil to see how they compare.

How strong should my first pack of Tadalafil tablets be?

Most people prescribed tadalafil for erectile dysfunction will start with tadalafil 10mg before sexual activity. If needed, your prescriber may increase your dose to tadalafil 20mg or reduce it depending on how well the treatment works and whether you experience side effects.

Can other medicines be taken with tadalafil?

Tadalafil can interact with some medicines, so it’s important to tell your prescriber about any treatments you take before starting tadalafil. You should not take tadalafil with nitrates used for chest pain, such as GTN spray or nicorandil, or with recreational drugs known as “poppers”, as this combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

What's the problem with having grapefruit juice with tadalafil?

Grapefruit juice can increase the concentration of tadalafil in your body, which may raise your risk of side effects. It’s best to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking tadalafil.

How long do I have to wait to take the next tablet?

You shouldn’t take tadalafil more than once a day.Tadalafil 10mg and tadalafil 20mg are designed for use before sexual activity and are not intended for continuous daily use. If you feel you need more regular erection support, your prescriber can advise whether another treatment option may be more suitable for you.

How do I buy tadalafil online?

You can buy tadalafil online in the UK through a registered online pharmacy after completing a consultation. The Independent Pharmacy offers a simple online consultation. A UK-registered clinician or pharmacist will review your answers and check whether tadalafil is suitable for you. If approved, tadalafil tablets can be delivered directly to your door in discreet packaging.

Buy Tadalafil Tablets Online (Generic Cialis)

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Tadalafil Tablets: Overview

from £8.79

Overthinking intimacy? If you’re worrying about timing or feeling pressure to perform, ED can quickly start affecting your confidence and relationships. What should feel natural can begin to feel stressful and difficult to enjoy.

Tadalafil is a prescription-only ED treatment that may help you get and maintain an erection firm enough for sex by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Its effects may last for up to 36 hours, helping you feel less restricted by timing and bringing more flexibility and spontaneity to intimate moments.

If starting ED treatment feels like a big step and you want to know what to expect, read our guide on what to expect in your first month on tadalafil.

Who Is Tadalafil Tablets (10mg & 20mg) Suitable For?

Suitable for age: 18 Years +

Suitable for pregnancy?No

Suitable for breastfeeding?No

Maximums per order:

Tadalafil 10mg Tablets (Generic Cialis)4
Tadalafil 20mg Tablets (Generic Cialis)4

Consultation required?Yes

This treatment requires an online consultation for review by our medical team. The decision to supply the specific treatment and quantity requested will be based on whether our medical team are satisfied that it will be safe, appropriate, and effective.

Generic Treatment?Yes

This is a generic medicine and the manufacturer of the treatment supplied may vary from the treatment image above, depending on availability. Please contact us once you've placed your order if you require a specific brand and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Tadalafil Tablets Summary

Type of medicine: Phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors
Active ingredient: Tadalafil
Works by: Increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation
Effectiveness: May work from 30 minutes for up to 36 hours
Available strengths: 10mg, 20mg
Generic or branded treatment: Generic
Pack size: 4 tablets
Manufacturer: Accord Healthcare, Aspire Pharma, Cipla EU, Aurobindo Pharma - Milpharm, Mylan, Ranbaxy
Use with alcohol: Alcohol may reduce effectiveness and increase side effects

About Tadalafil

How Does Tadalafil Work?

Tadalafil belongs to a group of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors. Following sexual stimulation, it works by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, helping increase blood flow and improve erections.

Tadalafil only works when you’re sexually aroused, so foreplay and sexual stimulation are still needed for the treatment to work effectively.

Its effects may start from around 30 minutes after taking a tablet and may last for up to 36 hours.

Alternatives to Tadalafil

There are several other ED treatments available if tadalafil is not suitable for you, doesn’t provide the results you expected, or you’re looking for a different type of support.

Alternative ED treatments available at The Independent Pharmacy include:

Sildenafil Tablets - A shorter-acting ED treatment that usually works for up to 4 hours. Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra.
Viagra Tablets - The branded version of sildenafil, available in 25mg, 50mg and 100mg strengths.
Cialis Tablets (10mg & 20mg) - The branded version of tadalafil, containing the same active ingredient as generic tadalafil tablets.
Vardenafil Tablets - Another prescription ED treatment that works similarly to tadalafil and sildenafil.
Spedra Tablets - Contains avanafil, which may work more quickly for some men compared with other ED treatments.

How To Use Tadalafil

The usual starting dose is 10mg before sexual activity
Your prescriber may increase your dose to 20mg if needed
Take your tablet at least 30 minutes before intimacy
Swallow the tablet whole with water
Tadalafil can be taken with or without food
Do not take more than one tablet a day

Ingredients

Active ingredient:10mg or 20mg of tadalafil.

Other ingredients could include: lactose monohydrate, croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl cellulose, povidone K-25, magnesium stearate and sodium lauryl sulfate. The tablet coating contains hypromellose, titanium dioxide, talc and yellow iron oxide.

Generic product disclaimer

The ingredients provided on this page refer to a generic version of the product. Ingredient lists may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer of the specific treatment you receive. However, the active ingredient and its therapeutic effect will remain the same across all manufacturers.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, tadalafil can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Most side effects are mild to moderate.

Common side effects include:

Headache
Facial flushing
Nasal congestion
Indigestion
Back pain
Muscle aches
Pain in the arms and legs

Less common side effects can include dizziness, reflux, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, nosebleeds and swelling of the hands or feet.

Seek urgent medical help if you experience:

Chest pain
Sudden loss of vision or hearing
An allergic reaction
A painful erection lasting longer than 4 hours

Warnings

Tadalafil may not be suitable for everyone. Before taking treatment, tell your clinician if you have heart disease, high or low blood pressure, liver or kidney problems, sickle cell anaemia, leukaemia or multiple myeloma.

Do not take tadalafil if you:

Take nitrates for chest pain
Take riociguat
Recently had a heart attack or stroke
Have certain serious eye conditions linked to vision loss

Tadalafil Tablets (10mg & 20mg) reviews

Tadalafil FAQs

Can you buy tadalafil over the counter?
No, tadalafil is a prescription-only treatment in the UK and can only be obtained from regulated pharmacies such as The Independent Pharmacy.

Before tadalafil 10mg or tadalafil 20mg can be supplied, you’ll need to complete a discreet online consultation. Our expert pharmacists will check whether the treatment is suitable for you.
Can I buy tadalafil online in the UK?
Yes, you can buy tadalafil online in the UK from a registered online pharmacy after completing a consultation.

At The Independent Pharmacy, consultations are discreet, quick and easy. If approved, tadalafil tablets can be delivered directly to your door.
Is 20mg tadalafil equal to 100mg Viagra?
Not exactly. Tadalafil 20mg and Viagra 100mg are different treatments, so the strengths cannot be compared directly.

One of the main differences is how long they last. Viagra (sildenafil) usually works for around 4–6 hours, while tadalafil may remain effective for up to 36 hours. Some people prefer tadalafil because the longer duration can make intimacy feel more spontaneous.
Can I drink alcohol with tadalafil?
You can usually drink small amounts of alcohol while taking tadalafil 10mg or tadalafil 20mg.

However, drinking too much alcohol can make it harder to get an erection and may increase the risk of side effects like dizziness, headaches or low blood pressure.
What is the difference between tadalafil and other ED treatments?
One of the main differences with tadalafil is how long it may last. While some ED treatments only work for a few hours, tadalafil may remain effective for up to 36 hours, helping intimacy feel more natural and spontaneous.

You can also take tadalafil with or without food, giving you more flexibility around your routine and intimate moments.

If you’re unsure which ED treatment may suit you best, read our guide to the best erectile dysfunction pills in the UK.
How much time will tadalafil last?
Tadalafil is often known as the “weekend pill” because its effects may last for up to 36 hours after taking a tablet.

You still need to be sexually aroused for tadalafil to work.
What happens if tadalafil isn't working the first time I take it?
If tadalafil does not work the first time, try not to panic. For many men, anxiety, timing and alcohol can all affect how well ED treatment works.

Tadalafil may take up to an hour to reach its full effect, so taking it too close to intimacy may reduce how well it works.

If tadalafil still isn’t working well for you after several attempts, your prescriber may recommend adjusting your dose or exploring another ED treatment with you.

There are also simple lifestyle and timing changes that may help treatment work better. Read our guide on how to maximise the benefits of tadalafil.
Which is best? Tadalafil or Viagra?
Tadalafil and Viagra (sildenafil) are both effective ED treatments, but they work slightly differently.

Viagra may work slightly faster for some people, while tadalafil lasts longer and may remain effective for up to 36 hours. Some men prefer tadalafil because it can feel less restrictive around timing and planning intimacy.

Want a clearer side-by-side comparison? Read our guide to tadalafil vs sildenafil to see how they compare.
How strong should my first pack of Tadalafil tablets be?
Most people prescribed tadalafil for erectile dysfunction will start with tadalafil 10mg before sexual activity.

If needed, your prescriber may increase your dose to tadalafil 20mg or reduce it depending on how well the treatment works and whether you experience side effects.
Can other medicines be taken with tadalafil?
Tadalafil can interact with some medicines, so it’s important to tell your prescriber about any treatments you take before starting tadalafil.

You should not take tadalafil with nitrates used for chest pain, such as GTN spray or nicorandil, or with recreational drugs known as “poppers”, as this combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
What's the problem with having grapefruit juice with tadalafil?
Grapefruit juice can increase the concentration of tadalafil in your body, which may raise your risk of side effects. It’s best to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking tadalafil.
How long do I have to wait to take the next tablet?
You shouldn’t take tadalafil more than once a day.Tadalafil 10mg and tadalafil 20mg are designed for use before sexual activity and are not intended for continuous daily use.

If you feel you need more regular erection support, your prescriber can advise whether another treatment option may be more suitable for you.
How do I buy tadalafil online?
You can buy tadalafil online in the UK through a registered online pharmacy after completing a consultation.

The Independent Pharmacy offers a simple online consultation. A UK-registered clinician or pharmacist will review your answers and check whether tadalafil is suitable for you.

If approved, tadalafil tablets can be delivered directly to your door in discreet packaging.

We’re a Fully Regulated Online Pharmacy

As a UK-based pharmacy, we follow the same strict regulatory standards as any physical pharmacy. Our expert clinical team and services are overseen by multiple regulatory bodies to ensure your care is always safe, secure and confidential.

General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)
The Independent Pharmacy premises and all pharmacists are registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), the UK regulator for pharmacies and pharmacists. Their standards ensure the highest levels of patient safety, professional practice and quality care.
GPhC: 9012559
View Our GPhC Registration
Care Quality Commission (CQC)
The Independent Pharmacy is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care services in England. The CQC carries out regular inspections to ensure healthcare providers meet the standards required to deliver safe, effective care.
CQC: 1-10976213225
View Our CQC Registration
General Medical Council (GMC)
The Independent Pharmacy’s doctors are registered with the General Medical Council (GMC), the UK regulator for doctors. The GMC ensures doctors meet strict professional standards and keep their training and knowledge up to date to provide safe, high-quality care.
Visit The GMC Website
NHS Prescriptions
The Independent Pharmacy provides all Essential Pharmacy services as part of the NHS pharmacy contract. As with any local high street pharmacy, this includes the dispensing of NHS prescriptions and delivering pharmacy service in line with national NHS standards.
NHS: X153808
View Our NHS Listing
National Pharmacy Association (NPA)
The Independent Pharmacy is a member of the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), the UK’s non-profit representative body for independent community pharmacies. The NPA supports pharmacies in maintaining high professional standards and delivering safe, high-quality patient care.
Visit The NPA Website
Digital Clinical Excellence (DiCE)
The Independent Pharmacy is part of the Digital Clinical Excellence (DiCE) network, an organisation dedicated to improving quality, safety and standards in digital healthcare. DiCE works with providers to drive continuous clinical excellence across online healthcare services.
View The DiCE Network
LegitScript
The Independent Pharmacy is certified by LegitScript, an organisation that verifies the legitimacy and compliance of online healthcare providers. This voluntary certification helps ensure online pharmacies operate legally, safely and transparently.
Test Our LegitScript Certification
NCSC Cyber Essentials
The Independent Pharmacy is certified by NCSC Cyber Essentials, a government-backed scheme that protects against the most common internet-based cyber threats. This ensures that our systems are safe and your personal information is protected.
Cyber Essentials: GBLTD08515600
View Our Certification
Living Wage Employer
The Independent Pharmacy is an accredited Living Wage Employer, committed to paying staff a fair wage that reflects the real cost of living. This ensures our staff feel supported and valued while delivering the highest standards of care.
Search For Our Listing

Run by experienced healthcare professionals

We think accessing healthcare should be easy. Whether we’re fulfilling NHS prescriptions or helping people find the right treatments, we aim to offer our customers dependable, economical and convenient access to medicines with a personal and discreet service.

12 qualified pharmacists
60 years combined experience
4.9 miltreatments delivered
5 milregistered users

Scott McDougall
Co-Founder
Andy Boysan
Co-Founder
Yuvika Rampal-Barclay
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber
Malgorzata Chudzik
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber
Daniel Hurley
Clinical Governance Lead
Christian Kupich
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber

Meet The Team

Tadalafil Tablets (10mg & 20mg) Price Comparison

View all the available prices for Tadalafil Tablets (10mg & 20mg) from The Independent Pharmacy

Tadalafil 10mg Tablets (Generic Cialis)
Save up to 43%
- 4 tablets
  £2.22 per tablet
  £8.89
- 8 tablets
  £1.86 per tablet
  £15.00
  Save £2.78
- 16 tablets
  £1.56 per tablet
  £24.96
  Save £10.60
- 24 tablets
  £1.54 per tablet
  £37.20
  Save £16.14
- 32 tablets
  £1.36 per tablet
  £44.64
  Save £26.48
- 48 tablets
  £1.35 per tablet
  £65.40
  Save £41.28
- 64 tablets
  £1.16 per tablet
  £79.68
  Save £62.56
Tadalafil 20mg Tablets (Generic Cialis)
Save up to 45%
- 4 tablets
  £2.11 per tablet
  £8.79
- 8 tablets
  £1.80 per tablet
  £14.98
  Save £2.60
- 16 tablets
  £1.56 per tablet
  £24.96
  Save £10.20
- 24 tablets
  £1.45 per tablet
  £36.96
  Save £15.78
- 32 tablets
  £1.40 per tablet
  £44.96
  Save £25.36
- 48 tablets
  £1.46 per tablet
  £66.96
  Save £38.52
- 64 tablets
  £1.16 per tablet
  £76.96
  Save £63.68

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We stock 16 other treatments for Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Visit our Erectile Dysfunction (ED) page for treatments, advice and FAQs.

View More Treatments

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1. Find the ideal treatment
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2. Get a free consultation
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3. Enjoy speedy delivery
And when the time comes to re-order, it'll only take a couple of clicks.

Written by Andy Boysan

Co-Founder

BPharm

GPhC 2047716

Andy is a co-founder and Superintendent Pharmacist at The Independent Pharmacy. With over 30 years of practice across a wide range of professional settings, he is committed to improving patient outcomes, supporting teams and advancing professional standards within the pharmacy sector. Andy's career spans a range of senior leadership roles, including managing individual pharmacies, clusters of pharmacies, and wider regions for major national chains. In these roles, he was responsible for driving performance, ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting staff development and delivering high standards of patient care.

Reviewed by Dr Donald Grant

GP Advisor

MB ChB DRCOG MRCGP Dip.orth.med

GMC 3058367

Dr Donald Grant is The Independent Pharmacy's original online prescriber and is now our Clinical Advisor, using his wealth of experience to advise on clinical polices and prescribing guidelines. With over 30 years of experience, he is dedicated to enhancing the accessibility of online healthcare, ensuring that clinicians continuously pass on their knowledge to provide better care to patients. Dr Donald Grant has worked with pharmacists at The Independent Pharmacy since its inception.

Published 19 February 2020

Updated 18 May 2026

Reviewed 10 April 2024

Next review 10 April 2026

References
Tadalafil Patient Information Leaflet

Tadalafil Tablets (10mg & 20mg)

Tadalafil Tablets: Overview

Who Is Tadalafil Tablets (10mg & 20mg) Suitable For?

Tadalafil Tablets Summary

About Tadalafil

How Does Tadalafil Work?

Alternatives to Tadalafil

How To Use Tadalafil

Ingredients

Generic product disclaimer

Side Effects

Warnings

Tadalafil Tablets (10mg & 20mg) reviews

Tadalafil FAQs

Can you buy tadalafil over the counter?

Can I buy tadalafil online in the UK?

Is 20mg tadalafil equal to 100mg Viagra?

Can I drink alcohol with tadalafil?

What is the difference between tadalafil and other ED treatments?

How much time will tadalafil last?

What happens if tadalafil isn't working the first time I take it?

Which is best? Tadalafil or Viagra?

How strong should my first pack of Tadalafil tablets be?

Can other medicines be taken with tadalafil?

What's the problem with having grapefruit juice with tadalafil?

How long do I have to wait to take the next tablet?

How do I buy tadalafil online?

We’re a Fully Regulated Online Pharmacy

General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)

Care Quality Commission (CQC)

General Medical Council (GMC)

NHS Prescriptions

National Pharmacy Association (NPA)

Digital Clinical Excellence (DiCE)

LegitScript

NCSC Cyber Essentials

Living Wage Employer

Run by experienced healthcare professionals

Tadalafil Tablets (10mg & 20mg) Price Comparison

Tadalafil 10mg Tablets (Generic Cialis)

Tadalafil 20mg Tablets (Generic Cialis)

Related Treatments

Ordering as easy as 1, 2, 3

1. Find the ideal treatment

2. Get a free consultation

3. Enjoy speedy delivery