Avanafil (Stendra): quick facts, dosing, and safety tips
Need something that works fast? Avanafil is a newer oral drug for erectile dysfunction (ED) known for a quick start and a short window of peak effect. This page gives you the concrete facts: how it works, dosing rules, interactions, common side effects, and simple safety steps you can use right away.
How avanafil works and when to take it
Avanafil belongs to the PDE5 inhibitor group (same family as sildenafil and tadalafil). It helps blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation so you can get and keep an erection. Many men report a response in as little as 15–30 minutes; for others it may take up to an hour. Its effects usually last around 4–6 hours, enough time for normal sexual activity without a long tail.
Take avanafil with water. A high‑fat meal can slow absorption and delay how fast it works, so for the quickest onset take it on an emptier stomach. Avoid taking it more than once daily.
Dosing, side effects, and who should avoid it
Common doses are 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg. Many doctors start at 100 mg and adjust up or down based on effect and tolerability. If you’re older, have liver or kidney problems, or take other interacting drugs, your provider may choose a lower dose.
Typical side effects are headache, flushing, nasal congestion, back pain, and dizziness. These are usually mild and short-lived. Stop the drug and seek emergency care if you get chest pain, severe dizziness, sudden vision loss, or an erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism).
Do not use avanafil with nitrates (common in chest pain medicine) — this combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Also avoid combining it with riociguat. If you take alpha‑blockers for prostate or blood pressure issues, your doctor will advise careful timing and dosing. Grapefruit juice and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (like certain antifungals or HIV meds) can raise avanafil levels — tell your prescriber about all medicines and supplements.
If you have serious heart disease, unstable angina, or were advised not to have sex for medical reasons, talk to your cardiologist before trying avanafil.
Buying tips: avanafil requires a prescription. Use a licensed pharmacy and avoid unverified online sellers that offer prescription drugs without a doctor visit. Telehealth services and local clinics can help you get a legitimate prescription safely and fast.
Want to try avanafil? Talk to your doctor about dose options, possible interactions with your medicines, and what to watch for. With the right guidance, it can be a safe, quick option for many men with ED.
