Stendra (avanafil) is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. Below is an overview of its key features, how it works, common uses, dosing, safety information, and potential side‑effects.
1. What is Stendra?
| Item |
Details |
| Generic name |
Avanafil |
| Brand name |
Stendra |
| Drug class |
Phosphodiesterase type‑5 (PDE‑5) inhibitor |
| Manufacturer |
Pfizer (previously Pfizer‑Merck) |
| Approval |
Approved by the U.S. FDA in 2012 for treatment of ED |
2. How It Works
Stendra works by blocking the enzyme PDE‑5, which is responsible for breaking down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). By inhibiting PDE‑5, cGMP levels rise, leading to increased blood flow into the penis during sexual stimulation and, consequently, an erection. Unlike some other PDE‑5 inhibitors, avanafil is believed to have a faster onset of action (often within 15–20 minutes).
3. Typical Uses
- Primary indication: Erectile dysfunction (difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity).
- Other uses: Currently, no other approved indications.
4. General Dosing (Adults)
| Condition |
Typical dose |
Timing |
Notes |
| On-demand use |
50 mg |
Taken orally 15–30 minutes before sexual activity |
Can be taken up to 4 hours before intercourse. |
| Higher dose |
100 mg |
For patients who do not respond to 50 mg |
Only if 50 mg is insufficient and no contraindications. |
| Lower dose |
25 mg |
For patients at risk of side‑effects or with certain comorbidities |
Not FDA‑approved; used in clinical practice under physician guidance. |
| Chronic dosing |
50 mg daily |
For patients who anticipate frequent sexual activity |
Not the standard approach but may be used for convenience. |
Important: Dosing should be individualized by a healthcare professional; the above is only a general guideline.
5. Contraindications & Precautions
| Category |
Key Points |
| Contraindications |
• Concomitant use of nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) or nitric oxide donors (including some herbal remedies like ginseng).
• Severe uncontrolled hypertension.
• Severe cardiovascular disease (unstable angina, recent heart attack).
• Known hypersensitivity to avanafil or any excipient. |
| Precautions |
• Liver disease (especially cirrhosis) may alter drug metabolism.
• Kidney impairment: dose adjustment may be needed.
• Use with caution in patients on other PDE‑5 inhibitors, anticoagulants, or antihypertensives.
• Alcohol use can enhance side‑effects. |
| Drug Interactions |
• Nitrates / NO donors → severe hypotension.
• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) → increased avanafil levels.
• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine) → decreased effectiveness.
• Alpha‑blockers (e.g., tamsulosin) → additive blood‑pressure‑lowering effects. |
6. Common Side‑Effects
| System |
Examples |
| Vascular |
Headache, flushing, nasal congestion, dizziness, low blood pressure. |
| Gastrointestinal |
Nausea, dyspepsia (indigestion). |
| Musculoskeletal |
Back pain, myalgia. |
| Ophthalmic |
Vision changes (rarely, e.g., blurred vision). |
| Other |
Rare cases of priapism (prolonged erection >4 h). |
Most side‑effects are mild and transient. If a serious reaction (e.g., vision changes, chest pain, prolonged erection, severe dizziness) occurs, seek medical help promptly.
7. Storage
- Keep in the original container.
- Store at room temperature (not above 30 °C / 86 °F).
- Protect from moisture and light.
8. What It Is Not
- Stendra is not a “sexual enhancer.” It requires sexual stimulation to work.
- It is not a cure for erectile dysfunction, nor does it treat the underlying cause.
- It is not an aphrodisiac, and it will not increase sexual desire in men or women.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question |
Answer |
| How fast does Stendra work? |
Usually within 15–20 minutes, but individual response times may vary. |
| Can I take Stendra with alcohol? |
Alcohol can increase the risk of dizziness and low blood pressure; moderate consumption is advised, but avoid heavy drinking. |
| Is Stendra safe for men with diabetes? |
Many men with diabetes use Stendra safely; however, diabetes can increase cardiovascular risks. Discuss with your doctor. |
| What should I do if I miss a dose? |
Do not double‑dose. If it's been more than 4 hours, take the next scheduled dose and adjust the timing accordingly. |
| Can Stendra be taken with other ED meds? |
No; taking two PDE‑5 inhibitors simultaneously is contraindicated and can cause severe hypotension. |
| Is it legal to buy Stendra online? |
It’s available only with a prescription in most countries. Purchasing from unverified online sources carries risks of counterfeit or contaminated products. |
10. Bottom Line
Stendra (avanafil) is a well‑established, prescription PDE‑5 inhibitor that helps many men with erectile dysfunction achieve an erection when sexually stimulated. It offers a rapid onset of action and a relatively favorable safety profile, but it must be used with caution in people taking nitrates or with certain cardiovascular, liver, or kidney conditions. As always, discuss with a qualified healthcare provider to ensure it’s the right choice for you and to receive personalized dosing and monitoring.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.