Cialis Super Active (Tadalafil 20mg Soft Gelcap)
Cialis Super Active is a soft gelatin capsule formulation of tadalafil 20mg, designed for faster dissolution than a standard tablet. Used by adult men with erectile dysfunction; same 36-hour effect window as Cialis.
- Active ingredients
- Tadalafil
- Manufacturer
- Eli Lilly
- Dosage forms
- soft gelatin capsule
- Available dosages
- 20mg
- Category
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
What is it?
Cialis Super Active is a soft gelatin capsule (softgel) formulation of tadalafil marketed for adult men with erectile dysfunction. The capsule shell dissolves quickly in the gastrointestinal tract, releasing the liquid-filled active ingredient sooner than a compressed tablet. The product positions itself as a faster-onset alternative within the wider Cialis portfolio. The active molecule, tadalafil, is identical to that in original Cialis and authorised generics, with the same 36-hour effect window.
Active ingredients
Each Cialis Super Active capsule contains 20mg of tadalafil dissolved in a liquid carrier inside a soft gelatin shell. As a selective PDE5 inhibitor, tadalafil produces the same physiological effect as in any other authorised tadalafil 20mg product. The softgel format does not alter the molecule itself but, according to product literature, can shorten dissolution time and provide more uniform absorption across patients.
Forms and dosages
Cialis Super Active is supplied as 20mg soft gelatin capsules, swallowed whole with a glass of water. The standard dose is one capsule approximately 30 minutes before planned sexual activity. Maximum dosing is one capsule per 24 hours. Capsules can be taken with or without food, and unlike sildenafil-based products, food has minimal impact on absorption. The capsules should not be opened, chewed or split.
Indications
Cialis Super Active is intended for adult men with erectile dysfunction. It is not indicated for women, paediatric patients or men without a clinical diagnosis. According to general prescribing principles for tadalafil, the product should be used after medical evaluation of cardiovascular fitness and current medication. The fixed 20mg presentation is not suitable for patients who would normally require lower titration doses.
How it works
Tadalafil inhibits PDE5 in penile tissue during sexual arousal, allowing cyclic GMP to accumulate, smooth muscle to relax and blood inflow to increase. The softgel shell dissolves quickly once ingested, exposing the dissolved active ingredient to the upper gastrointestinal tract earlier than a compressed tablet. According to product literature, this can shorten the practical onset of action to about 30 minutes, while preserving the 36-hour effect window that defines tadalafil.
Frequently asked questions
How is Cialis Super Active different from regular Cialis? ▾
Both products contain tadalafil 20mg, but Cialis Super Active is supplied as a soft gelatin capsule rather than a film-coated tablet. The softgel format dissolves more quickly in the stomach, releasing the active ingredient earlier. According to product literature, this can shorten onset of action by about 15 minutes versus a standard tablet. The clinical effect, the 36-hour window, indications and contraindications are otherwise the same.
How quickly does Cialis Super Active start to work? ▾
Most product literature reports onset of action in around 30 minutes when taken on an empty or light stomach, compared with 30 to 60 minutes for the conventional tablet. Unlike sildenafil products, food does not significantly delay tadalafil absorption. As with any tadalafil product, sexual stimulation is required for the medication to produce an erection.
Can the capsule be opened or split? ▾
No. According to general guidance for soft gelatin capsules, the shell must remain intact during ingestion to ensure dose accuracy and stability of the active ingredient. Splitting or opening the capsule risks an uneven dose and exposes the active ingredient to oxidation. The capsule should be swallowed whole with water and not chewed.
Is Cialis Super Active stronger than Cialis? ▾
No. The dose is the same — 20mg of tadalafil — and the maximum systemic exposure is comparable. The 'super active' designation refers to the faster dissolution and slightly earlier onset, not to a higher peak concentration or longer duration. According to product literature, the overall effect window remains up to 36 hours, as with conventional Cialis 20mg.
What contraindications apply? ▾
All standard tadalafil contraindications apply: concurrent use of organic nitrates or guanylate cyclase stimulators is contraindicated due to severe hypotension risk. Caution is required in patients with severe cardiovascular disease, recent stroke or heart attack, severe hepatic impairment and known hypersensitivity to tadalafil. According to the prescribing information, full medical history must be reviewed before initiation.
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The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.