What is avanafil?

Avanafil, marketed as Stendra, is an oral medication classified as a PDE5 inhibitor. It is typically taken about 15 minutes before sexual activity, with a recommended limit of once per day.

Avoid using any PDE5 inhibitors, including avanafil, if you are on nitrates for heart disease treatment. Common nitrates like isosorbide mononitrate (Monoket) and nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) can dangerously lower blood pressure when combined with avanafil, potentially leading to fatal outcomes.

Common side effects: These include headaches, flushing (redness and warmth in the face), nasal congestion or a runny nose, back pain, and a sore throat.

Advantages:

• Classified as a PDE5 inhibitor, which is a widely used treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED).
• Approved by the FDA.
• Takes effect within 15–30 minutes.
• Associated with minimal side effects.

Disadvantages:

• It may be cost-prohibitive for some individuals.
• Serious interactions can occur with nitrates.