Does Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Cover Cialis?

What the FDA record establishes

Cialis is a PDE5 inhibitor approved for erectile dysfunction (ED), the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and both conditions together [2]. The label says the as-needed starting dose for ED is 10 mg before anticipated sexual activity, which may be raised to 20 mg or lowered to 5 mg based on efficacy and tolerability, with a maximum recommended frequency of once per day in most patients. Once-daily dosing is 2.5 mg for ED (may increase to 5 mg) and 5 mg for BPH or for ED with BPH [2]. The label says not to split the tablets [2].

Cialis 5, 10 and 20 mg tablets are listed as prescription products in Drugs@FDA, and the brand 2.5 mg tablet is listed as discontinued [1]. Generic tadalafil tablets are approved under many ANDAs and follow the Cialis indications [1].

Why the product on the prescription matters

Cialis and Adcirca are separate prescription products with different FDA approvals. Cialis is approved for ED and BPH [2][1]. Adcirca is a separate tadalafil 20 mg tablet approved under NDA 022332 for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), to improve exercise ability [3]. Because both contain tadalafil and come as 20 mg tablets, the product name on the prescription is what tells them apart. The Cialis label says combining it with other PDE5 inhibitors or other ED treatments has not been studied [2], and the Adcirca label says to avoid other PDE5 inhibitors, including Cialis.

Checking your plan's drug list

Search the plan's drug list for both Cialis and tadalafil, and note any coverage requirements printed next to either entry. Tier placement, prior authorization rules and cost-sharing for either product are set by your specific BCBSIL plan.