Stendra (Avanafil): Fast-Acting ED Treatment, Uses, Dosage & Side Effects
Stendra is the brand name for Avanafil, a prescription drug used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. It’s one of the newest ED medications, known for its rapid onset—working in as little as 15 minutes for some men.
Approved by the FDA in 2012, Stendra belongs to the same drug class as Viagra and Cialis (PDE5 inhibitors), but offers a faster and more selective action, often with fewer side effects.
✅ What is Stendra (Avanafil)?
Stendra helps men achieve and maintain erections by improving blood flow to the penis. Unlike older ED drugs, it is more selective for the PDE5 enzyme, which may reduce the chances of unwanted side effects.
It’s sold under the brand name Stendra, and its generic name is Avanafil.
✅ How Stendra Works
Avanafil works by blocking the phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enzyme. This allows cGMP to accumulate, relaxing muscles in the penis and promoting increased blood flow during sexual arousal. It doesn’t work without sexual stimulation.
✅ Approved Uses
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in adult men
✅ Dosage and Administration
Stendra is available in 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg tablets.
- Starting dose: 100 mg, taken orally about 15–30 minutes before sex
- Can be taken with or without food
- Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours
Depending on effectiveness and side effects, the dose may be adjusted to 50 mg or 200 mg.
✅ How Long Does Stendra Last?
- Onset: As fast as 15 minutes
- Duration: Up to 6 hours
It’s one of the fastest-acting ED medications available.
✅ Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Flushing
- Nasal congestion
- Dizziness
- Back pain
Most side effects are mild and short-lived.
⚠️ Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help)
- Chest pain
- Sudden vision or hearing loss
- Erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism)
- Shortness of breath
⚠️ Warnings and Interactions
- Do not use with nitrates (heart medications)
- Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice
- Consult your doctor if you have heart disease, liver or kidney problems
- Avoid combining with other PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis, etc.)
✅ Stendra vs Other ED Drugs
| Feature | Stendra (Avanafil) | Viagra (Sildenafil) | Cialis (Tadalafil) | Levitra (Vardenafil) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onset | 15–30 min | 30–60 min | 30–60 min | 25–60 min |
| Duration | Up to 6 hrs | 4–6 hrs | Up to 36 hrs | 4–5 hrs |
| Food Restrictions | Minimal | High-fat meals delay | None | Low-fat preferred |
| Visual Side Effects | Rare | More common | Rare | Rare |
✅ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is Stendra better than Viagra?
Stendra works faster and may cause fewer side effects, especially visual disturbances.
Q2: How long does Stendra last?
It lasts up to 6 hours but is most effective in the first 2–3 hours.
Q3: Can I take Stendra daily?
No. Stendra is taken only as needed, not for daily use.
Q4: Is a prescription needed for Stendra?
Yes, it’s a prescription medication in most countries.
✅ Final Thoughts
Stendra is a fast, effective, and well-tolerated treatment for erectile dysfunction. It works quicker than most ED medications and may cause fewer side effects. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting Stendra or switching from other ED treatments.
✅ Scientific References
Cleveland Clinic – Erectile Dysfunction Overview
https://my.clevelandclinic.org
FDA – Stendra (Avanafil) Prescribing Info
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov
Mayo Clinic – Avanafil (Oral Route)
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/avanafil-oral-route
MedlinePlus – Avanafil
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a613040.html
PubMed – Avanafil in ED Treatment
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23234624/