Spedra, avanafil, is a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor for erectile dysfunction in adult men. It helps you get and keep an erection when you are sexually stimulated.

Clinical trials show higher success rates than placebo, including erections firm enough for penetration from as early as 15 minutes for some men. Real-world data also support rapid onset and good tolerance. Effect varies by dose and individual factors.

Most men get benefit for up to about 4 to 6 hours. The half-life is similar to other short-acting PDE5 inhibitors, so the effect tails off over several hours.

Take one tablet about 15 to 30 minutes before sex. You need sexual stimulation for it to work. You can take it with or without food, but a very fatty meal may slow the effect. Do not take more than once a day. Limit alcohol, large amounts can increase side effects such as dizziness and low blood pressure. Do not use with nitrates or riociguat. Check interactions if you use alpha-blockers or potent CYP3A4 inhibitors.

The usual starting dose is 100 mg when needed. If it is not effective and you tolerate it, your prescriber may increase to 200 mg. If you get side effects, you may be advised to use 50 mg. Never exceed one dose in 24 hours. Dose adjustments are needed in some medical conditions and with interacting medicines. Follow our prescriber’s advice.

Common side effects include headache, flushing, nasal or sinus congestion, and back pain. Dizziness can occur. Serious problems are rare but include priapism, sudden loss of vision or hearing, and severe allergic reactions. Seek urgent care if these happen. The class carries cardiovascular cautions, especially with nitrates.

see patient information leaflet

Both treat erectile dysfunction and work in the same pathway. Spedra tends to act faster, often from 15 minutes, with a similar overall duration of effect. Some visual side effects seen with sildenafil appear less common with avanafil due to higher PDE5 selectivity, although head-to-head trials are limited.