How is Viagra better than Stendra?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that affects millions of men worldwide. If you are one of the many men who experience ED, you may be looking for treatment options to help you regain your sex life. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for ED, particularly oral medications such as Viagra and Stendra.

Viagra and Stendra are two prescription drugs used to treat ED. Both belong to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These drugs work by increasing blood flow to the penis, which helps men achieve and maintain an erection strong enough for intercourse.

So, which of these two drugs is better – Viagra or Stendra? While both drugs are effective in treating ED, there are some differences between them. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at Viagra and Stendra, compare their similarities and differences, and explore why Viagra may be a better choice for many men.

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Before we dive into the Viagra vs. Stendra comparison, it’s important to understand what ED is and what causes it. ED, also known as impotence, is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It can be an intermittent or chronic problem, and it can affect men of any age, although it is more common in older men.

ED can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Physical conditions: Many physical conditions can contribute to ED, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Peyronie’s disease. These conditions can affect blood flow, nerves, or hormones involved in erections.
Psychological factors: Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, guilt, and relationship problems can also cause ED. These factors can affect sexual arousal and the ability to achieve an erection.
Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use, can increase the risk of ED. These factors can damage blood vessels and impair blood flow to the penis.
Medication: Some prescription medications can have ED as a side effect, including antidepressants, antihypertensives, antihistamines, and prostate cancer drugs.
Surgery or injury Surgery or injury to the pelvic area or spinal cord can damage nerves or blood vessels, leading to ED.

It is important to consult with your doctor if you are experiencing ED to rule out any underlying medical conditions and determine an appropriate treatment plan. ED can be a symptom of more serious health problems, such as heart disease or diabetes. Additionally, your doctor can help you determine the best treatment option for ED based on your individual needs and health status.

Viagra and Stendra: How Do They Work?

Viagra (Sildenafil) and Stendra (Avanafil) are PDE5 inhibitors. They work by blocking the action of the PDE5 enzyme. This enzyme breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which is a substance that relaxes the smooth muscles in the penis and increases blood flow.

When a man is sexually aroused, nitric oxide (NO) is released in the penis. NO activates guanylate cyclase, an enzyme that produces cGMP. cGMP then relaxes the smooth muscles in the penis, allowing blood to flow into the penis and causing an erection.

By blocking PDE5, Viagra and Stendra allow cGMP to build up, which leads to more blood flow to the penis and makes it easier to achieve and maintain an erection.

It is important to note that Viagra and Stendra are not aphrodisiacs and do not increase libido. They only work when a man is sexually aroused. It is also important to note that Viagra and Stendra are not a cure for ED. They only help men achieve an erection while the drug is active in their body.

Viagra (sildenafil) vs. Stendra (avanafil)

Here is a comparison of Viagra and Stendra on various characteristics:

Active ingredient: Viagra contains sildenafil, and Stendra contains avanafil.
Manufacturer: Viagra is made by Pfizer, and Stendra is made by Vivus.
Available strengths: Viagra is available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. Stendra is available in 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg.
Onset of action: Viagra begins to work in 30-60 minutes, while Stendra begins to work faster, in 15-30 minutes.
Duration of action: Viagra works for 4-5 hours, and the stand can work up to 6 hours.
Effects of food: Viagra can be affected by food, especially fatty foods, which can slow down its action. Stendra has little effect on food.
Side effects: Common side effects of Viagra include headache, flushing, stuffy nose, upset stomach, and blurred vision. Stendra has similar side effects such as headache, flushing, stuffy nose, and upset stomach, but can also cause back pain.
Both drugs may interact with nitrates, alpha blockers, some antifungals and antibiotics.
Availability: Both drugs are available by prescription.
Release form: Both drugs are available in tablet form.
Brand and Generics: Viagra has both brand and generic versions available. Stendra is only available as a brand name drug.

Efficiency

Clinical studies have shown that both Viagra and Stendra are effective in treating ED. In multiple studies, both drugs significantly improved erectile function compared to placebo.

While both drugs are effective, Stendra is often touted as being faster acting than Viagra. Stendra can start working in as little as 15 to 30 minutes, while Viagra can take 30 to 60 minutes to kick in. This faster action can be an advantage for men who want more spontaneous sexual activity.

However, it is important to note that both drugs are very effective in treating ED. The choice between Viagra and Stendra often comes down to personal preference and consideration of other factors such as side effects, drug interactions, and cost.

Onset and duration of action

One of the main differences between Viagra and Stendra is the onset of action. Stendra tends to work faster than Viagra. Stendra can start working as early as 15-30 minutes after taking it, while Viagra can take 30-60 minutes to start working. This faster action is due to the fact that Stendra is absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly.

The duration of action of Viagra and Stendra differ slightly. Viagra lasts approximately 4-5 hours, while Stendra can last up to 6 hours. For most men, both drugs provide sufficient duration of action for satisfactory sexual performance. However, men who want a longer period of effectiveness may prefer Stendra.

Effects of food

Another difference between Viagra and Stendra is their interaction with food. The absorption of Viagra can be affected by food, especially high-fat foods. Taking Viagra with food can delay the onset of action and reduce its effectiveness. Therefore, it is usually recommended to take Viagra on an empty stomach.

Stendra is also little affected by food. Stendra can be taken with or without food, and its effectiveness should not be affected. This can be a significant advantage for men who prefer to take their ED medications without worrying about meal timing. The flexibility of taking Stendra with or without food makes it a more convenient option for some men.

Side effects

Viagra and Stendra have similar side effect profiles because they are both PDE5 inhibitors. The most common side effects of both drugs include:

headache
Redness of the face
Nasal congestion
Indigestion

There are, however, some differences in the specific side effects that are more common with each drug. Visual disturbances, such as blue vision or sensitivity to light, are more common with Viagra than with Stendra. Additionally, back pain seems to be slightly more common with Stendra.

In general, the side effects of both drugs are usually mild and temporary. However, in rare cases, more serious side effects may occur, such as priapism (painful or prolonged erection) and sudden loss of vision or hearing. If you experience any serious side effects, contact your doctor.

Contraindications and precautions

Viagra and Stendra have similar contraindications and precautions. Both drugs are contraindicated in men taking nitrates, commonly used to treat chest pain. Taking Viagra or Stendra with nitrates can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Viagra and Stendra should also be used with caution by men with certain medical conditions, such as:

Before taking Viagra or Stendra, it is important to tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications you are taking. Your doctor can help you determine whether the drug is safe for you and advise you on appropriate precautions.

Dosage and administration

Viagra is available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg dosages. The usual starting dosage is 50 mg, taken orally 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. The dosage can be increased to 100 mg or decreased to 25 mg depending on individual response and tolerance. The maximum recommended dosage frequency is once a day.

Stendra is available in 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg. The usual starting dose is 100 mg, taken orally 15 to 30 minutes before sexual activity. The dose can be increased to 200 mg or decreased to 50 mg depending on individual response and tolerability. The maximum recommended dosing frequency is once daily.

Your doctor will determine the right dose of Viagra or Stendra for you based on your individual needs and health. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for dosing and administration. Do not take more than the recommended dose or take it more often than prescribed.

Cost and availability

Viagra and Stendra are available by prescription only. Viagra has been on the market longer than Stendra and has become available in generic form (sildenafil). Generic Viagra has significantly reduced the cost of sildenafil treatment, making it more affordable for many men.

Stendra, on the other hand, is only available as a brand-name drug. Stendra is generally more expensive than brand-name Viagra, and significantly more expensive than generic Viagra (sildenafil). Costs may vary depending on the pharmacy, insurance coverage, and dosage.

For cost-conscious men, the availability of generic Viagra makes it a more cost-effective option. Stendra, while offering a faster onset of action and less food impact, can be more expensive, especially for long-term use.

Viagra vs. Stendra: Pros and Cons

To help you make an informed decision about which ED drug is right for you, let’s look at the pros and cons of Viagra and Stendra.

Viagra

Pros:

Proven Effectiveness: Viagra has a long history of success and has been widely studied, with numerous clinical studies confirming its effectiveness in treating ED.
Availability: Viagra has been on the market longer than Stendra and is available worldwide, making it easier to get a prescription and fill it at a pharmacy.
Generic Availability: The availability of generic Viagra (sildenafil) has significantly reduced the cost of treatment, making it more accessible to a wider range of men.
Well-known and reliable: Viagra is a well-known brand that is trusted by doctors and patients around the world. Its reputation for reliability and effectiveness is well-established.
Viagra is available in a variety of dosages (25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg), allowing doctors to select the appropriate dose for the individual needs of the patient .

Cons:

Slower onset of action: Viagra may take 30-60 minutes to start working, which may require some planning before sexual activity.
Effects of food: Viagra’s effectiveness can be affected by food, especially high-fat foods. It is best taken on an empty stomach, which may be inconvenient for some men.
Potential vision side effects: Viagra is slightly more likely to cause vision problems such as blue vision or sensitivity to light than Stendra.

Stendra

Pros:

Rapid onset of action Stendra has the significant advantage of rapid onset of action, beginning to work within 15-30 minutes. This rapid action allows for more spontaneous sexual activity.
Minimal food influence: The effectiveness of Stendra is minimally influenced by food, allowing for greater flexibility in meal timing.
Longer lasting: Stendra can last up to 6 hours, which is slightly longer than Viagra’s 4-5 hours.

Cons:

More expensive: Stendra is generally more expensive than brand-name Viagra, and significantly more expensive than generic Viagra (sildenafil). Cost can be a significant factor for long-term use.
Less Studied Long-Term: Because Stendra is a newer drug than Viagra, there is less long-term data on its effectiveness and safety compared to Viagra’s well-documented history.
Limited generic availability: Stendra is only available as a brand-name drug, meaning there is no cheaper generic alternative.
More limited availability: Stendra may not be as widely available as Viagra in some areas, which can make it difficult to get a prescription filled at your local pharmacy.

Why Viagra May Be the Best Choice for Many Men

While Stendra has certain advantages, such as a faster onset of action and less food influence, Viagra remains the better choice for many men for several compelling reasons:

Proven Efficacy and Long-Term Reliability: Viagra is the first and most studied PDE5 inhibitor on the market. Its effectiveness and safety are well documented by numerous clinical studies and real-life, long-term use. Men and doctors trust Viagra because of its reliable results and supposed action.
Cost-effectiveness due to generic availability: The availability of generic Viagra (sildenafil) has changed the game, making ED treatment much more accessible to millions of men worldwide. Generic Viagra offers the same effectiveness and safety as brand-name Viagra, but at a lower price. This availability makes Viagra a more cost-effective choice for long-term ED treatment. Stendra is only available as an expensive brand-name drug.
Wide Availability and Familiarity Viagra is a world-famous ED drug. Its wide availability means that men can easily obtain prescriptions and fill them at most pharmacies, both online and offline. Familiarity with Viagra also means that doctors have extensive experience prescribing and administering it, ensuring that patients receive proper care and guidance.
Effective onset and duration of action for most: Although Stendra may work slightly faster, Viagra’s 30-60 minute onset of action is still acceptable for many men. Viagra’s 4-5 hour duration of action is also sufficient for most sexual activity. For most men, the slight difference in onset and duration of action between Viagra and Stendra is not a significant advantage that outweighs Viagra’s other benefits.
Patient Feedback and Trust: Over the years, Viagra has received positive feedback from many users reporting satisfaction with its effectiveness and tolerability. The trust that Viagra has built among patients and healthcare professionals is a significant benefit, especially for men seeking treatment for ED for the first time.

Viagra and Stendra are both effective and safe medications for treating erectile dysfunction. Stendra offers the benefits of a faster onset of action and less food influence. However, Viagra remains the best choice for many men due to its proven effectiveness, generic availability, wide availability, cost effectiveness, and proven track record.

Ultimately, the best ED drug will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It’s important to consult with your doctor to discuss your medical history, current medication, and personal preferences to determine the best ED treatment option for you. Your doctor can help you weigh the pros and cons of Viagra and Stendra, as well as other treatment options, to make an informed decision that meets your needs and goals.

No matter which ED drug you choose, it’s important to remember that ED is a treatable condition. With the right treatment, you can improve your erectile function, restore your confidence, and enjoy a satisfying sex life. Contact your doctor today to discuss your options and get started on the path to better sexual health and well-being.

Frequently asked questions

1. Are Viagra and Stendra safe?

Yes, both Viagra and Stendra are generally safe for most men when taken as directed by a doctor. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects. The most common side effects are usually mild and temporary. More serious side effects are rare.

It is important to tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications you are taking before taking Viagra or Stendra. This will help your doctor determine if these medications are safe for you.

2. Which drug works faster, Viagra or Stendra?

Stendra is generally faster acting than Viagra. Stendra can start working in as little as 15 to 30 minutes, while Viagra can take 30 to 60 minutes to start working. This faster action is a major benefit of Stendra for some men.

3. Which drug lasts longer, Viagra or Stendra?

Stendra may last slightly longer than Viagra. Stendra can last up to 6 hours, while Viagra lasts about 4-5 hours. For most men, both drugs provide sufficient duration of action.

4. Can I take Viagra or Stendra with food?

Viagra can be affected by food, especially high-fat foods, which can delay its onset and reduce its effectiveness. Viagra is generally recommended to be taken on an empty stomach. Stendra is minimally affected by food and can be taken with or without food.

5. What are the side effects of Viagra and Stendra?

Viagra and Stendra have similar side effects, including headache, facial flushing, nasal congestion, and upset stomach. Visual disturbances are slightly more common with Viagra, while back pain is slightly more common with Stendra. Side effects are generally mild and temporary.

6. Can I take Viagra or Stendra if I have diabetes or heart disease?

If you have diabetes or heart disease, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking Viagra or Stendra. Your doctor can evaluate your health and determine if the drug is safe for you. Viagra and Stendra may interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for men with certain medical conditions.

7. Which ED drug is the most cost effective?

Viagra, especially generic Viagra (Sildenafil), is the most cost-effective option for treating ED due to the availability of generic versions. Stendra is generally more expensive because it is only available as a brand-name drug.

8. Where can I get Viagra and Stendra?

Viagra and Stendra are available by prescription only. You can get a prescription from your doctor. Once you get the prescription, you can fill it at any drugstore or through a reputable online pharmacy.

9. Which ED drug is better: Viagra or Stendra?

The best ED drug for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Viagra remains an excellent choice for many men due to its proven effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and wide availability. Stendra may be a better choice for men who prefer a faster onset of action and greater flexibility with meals. Consult with your doctor to determine the best ED drug for you.