Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition that affects millions of men all around the world, and with so many different treatment options that are available, choosing the right one can be really confusing for many. Two of the most popular prescription medications that are currently available for treating ED are Stendra and Viagra, both of these are designed to help men achieve and thus maintain stronger erections. But how do they actually compare with each other?
In this much detailed article, we will examine Stendra vs Viagra in much depth, covering how each drug works accordingly, their differences in their onset times, their effectiveness, side effects if any, cost, and much more. Whether you are someone who is exploring options for the first time or considering a switch all together, this guide will help you make a more informed decisions regarding the same.
What Are Stendra and Viagra?
Stendra, which is also known by its generic name avanafil, is a relatively newer ED medication that was approved by the FDA in 2012. It belongs to a class of drugs which are also called PDE5 inhibitors, which in turn help increase blood flow to the penile region during the process of sexual stimulation.
Viagra, on the other hand, is actually the brand name for sildenafil, which is the first ED medication that was approved in 1998. It revolutionized sexual medicine and thus remains a gold-standard treatment for treating erectile dysfunction.
How Do They Work?
Both the drugs Stendra (avanafil) and Viagra (sildenafil) actually work by relaxing blood vessels and thus increasing blood flow to the penis. They only work when there is a sexual arousal, meaning that they don’t cause spontaneous erections all of a sudden.
However, there are subtle key differences in how fast they work and how long they actually last:
Feature | Stendra (Avanafil) | Viagra (Sildenafil) |
Onset of action | As little as 15 minutes | 30–60 minutes |
Duration | 6 hours | 4–6 hours |
Food interactions | Minimal | May be delayed by high-fat meals |
Side effects | Generally milder | More common, especially flushing and headaches |
Avanafil vs Viagra: Speed and Convenience
When it comes to the timing of action, avanafil vs Viagra is a very clear distinction. Stendra starts relatively working faster, sometimes within as soon as 15 minutes, making it ideal for many spontaneous encounters. Sildenafil (Viagra) on the other hand may take upto 30 to 60 minutes to take full effect.
For many of the users, this rapid onset of avanafil pills is a major advantage that works in their favour, especially for those who actually prefer not to plan sex far in advance.
Effectiveness: Does One Work Better Than the Other?
Both these medications are highly effective, but some clinical studies do suggest that Viagra (sildenafil) may be slightly more potent in terms of its hardness and duration of erection as compared to its counterpart. However, Stendra (avanafil) relatively has fewer side effects and a faster onset time, which thus improves user satisfaction in general.
The ideal choice often depends on your individual response, health status, and one’s lifestyle preferences.
Side Effects: Sildenafil vs Avanafil
When comparing sildenafil vs avanafil, there are many side effects that are an important factor.
Common Side Effects of Viagra (Sildenafil):
- Headaches
- Facial flushing
- Nasal congestion
- Indigestion
- Blurred vision
Common Side Effects of Stendra (Avanafil):
- Mild headaches
- Nasal congestion
- Back pain
- Flushing (less severe)
Because avanafil is more selective in targeting the PDE5 enzyme, it causes fewer issues with vision and digestion compared to sildenafil. This makes Stendra a better-tolerated option for some men.
Dosage Options and Flexibility
Viagra is available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg doses. Stendra comes in 50mg, 100mg, and 200mg tablets. Doctors usually recommend starting with a middle dose (50mg or 100mg), then adjusting based on effectiveness and side effects.
Some men also consider generic sildenafil tablets like Cenforce 120, a cost-effective alternative that provides similar effects to brand-name Viagra at a more affordable price.
Price and Accessibility
Cost can be a deciding factor. Viagra, especially the branded version, is generally more expensive than Stendra or avanafil pills, and neither is usually covered by insurance for ED.
Generic sildenafil (like Cenforce 120) offers substantial savings without compromising effectiveness, making it popular in countries like the U.S., U.K., and India.
Drug Interactions and Safety
Both drugs should not be used with nitrates (often prescribed for chest pain) or certain blood pressure medications, as they can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure.
Also avoid combining Stendra or Viagra with:
- Alcohol in large amounts
- Recreational “poppers” (amyl nitrate)
- Grapefruit juice (especially for sildenafil)
Always consult a doctor before beginning any ED treatment to ensure it’s safe based on your health conditions and other medications.
Lifestyle Considerations
If you’re looking for a pill that works quickly and discreetly, Stendra is often favored because of its rapid onset and minimal food interactions. If cost or brand loyalty is more important, many still prefer Viagra or its generic forms.
For men seeking longer-lasting solutions, some doctors may also explore other PDE5 inhibitors like tadalafil (Cialis) or vardenafil (Levitra).
User Experience and Preferences
Patient satisfaction often depends on personal experience. Here are some common themes from user feedback:
- Stendra users often praise its fast-acting nature and milder side effects.
- Viagra users appreciate its proven track record and consistent results.
- Generic sildenafil users (like Cenforce 120) love the affordability and availability.
If you’re switching between medications, you may need to try a few before finding what works best for your body.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between Stendra vs Viagra comes down to:
If You Want… | Choose This |
Fast results (15 minutes) | Stendra (Avanafil) |
Longer track record | Viagra (Sildenafil) |
Fewer side effects | Stendra |
Lower cost | Generic Sildenafil (e.g., Cenforce 120) |
Flexibility around meals | Stendra |
Conclusion
Both Stendra and Viagra are effective, FDA-approved treatments for erectile dysfunction. While Viagra (sildenafil) remains a household name, Stendra (avanafil) offers a newer, faster-acting, and often better-tolerated alternative.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal health, preferences, and budget. For men looking for affordable solutions without sacrificing quality, Cenforce 120 remains a strong contender among generic ED treatments.