Arnaud Pontin (Image: advancedreconstruction.com)
Men with erectile dysfunction (ED) can be treated with the prescription drug Stendra, also generically referred to as avanafil. A man with ED has difficulty getting or keeping an erection strong enough for sexual activity. Included in the class of medications known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors is Stendra, along with vardenafil (Levitra), tadalafil (Cialis), and sildenafil (Viagra).
Stendra works by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme, which increases blood flow to the penis. The penis’s blood flow is regulated by this enzyme. Levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) increase upon inhibition of PDE5. When sexually stimulated, this relaxes the smooth muscle cells in the penile blood vessels, increasing blood flow and resulting in an erection. The drug is taken orally, ideally between 15 and 30 minutes prior to having sex.
Men with erectile dysfunction (ED) can be treated with Stendra, Cialis, Viagra, and Levitra; however, there are some variations in their mechanisms of action and side effects. Avanafil, or Stendra, is renowned for starting to work quickly. Its effects can last for up to six hours, and it can begin working in as little as fifteen minutes. For those looking for a fast-acting solution, this makes it a convenient choice.
Cialis is known for its long duration of action. The pill can last up to 36 hours, so it’s sometimes called the « weekend pill. » Men don’t need to time the medication as closely with sexual activity. Cialis also has a daily low-dose option for men who don’t like to plan around taking a pill.
Viagra is a well-known ED medication. It usually works in 30 to 60 minutes and lasts for four to five hours. Viagra is effective, but it needs to be taken a bit before you have sex.
Levitra is similar to Viagra in terms of when it starts and how long it lasts. It works in about 30 to 60 minutes and lasts for four to five hours. Some men find that Levitra is better for them than other ED medications.
These medicines are all part of the same group called PDE5 inhibitors. They work by making more blood flow to the penis, which helps make and keep an erection. They need to make you feel sexually active and should only be taken once a day.
These medicines can cause similar side effects like headaches, flushing, nasal congestion, back pain, and sometimes more serious ones like losing vision or hearing. If you take nitrates for chest pain with other medicines, your blood pressure can drop dangerously. Talk to your doctor before starting any of these treatments.