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Stendra vs. Viagra: Similarities, Differences, Choices

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Julian Carter
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Stendra vs. Viagra: Which One Should You Trust?

If you have Erectile Dysfunction (ED), you must have searched for several treatments to cope with the inability to stay erect. Around 40% of men experience some form of ED as they reach their forties. Hence, choosing the right treatment is necessary to reclaim sexual satisfaction. 

While pills are often considered the best approach to combat ED, many people are confused about Stendra vs. Viagra and which one is better. Both Stendra and Viagra are brand versions of ED medications, which contain two distinct yet widely accepted active ingredients. While they can work efficiently for different individuals, one may have more benefits than the other. In such a case, which one should you opt for, Stendra or Viagra?

This comprehensive article on Stendra vs. Viagra highlights the key differences between these two commonly prescribed medications. The intention is to help you determine which works best for you based on their prices, action, duration, availability, and more. So, let’s learn in detail.

What is the difference between Stendra and Viagra?

Depending on the various characteristics, Stendra vs. Viagra has the following differences:

Active ingredient

Stendra contains Avanafil, an FDA-approved active ingredient of the PDE5 Inhibitor class of medicines. It has been available in the market since 2012 and has proven to be a reliable ED treatment. 

In contrast, Sildenafil Citrate in Viagra treats ED. Viagra is the first-ever FDA-approved PDE5 Inhibitor, which revolutionized ED treatment, and treated more than 30 million men worldwide.

Also read: If you wonder how Viagra is distinct from Sildenafil, read “Sildenafil vs Viagra: Is Sildenafil as Good as Viagra” to learn the key distinctions.

Onset of action and half-life

Stendra has a rapid onset of action and works within 15 to 30 minutes. It also lasts 6 hours and gives you more time to engage in sexual activity compared to Viagra.

In contrast, Viagra is a reliable ED medication that starts working within 30 minutes and gives you the desired erection. Furthermore, Viagra stays effective for 4 hours. However, it doesn’t mean that you’ll stay erect for this long. The window for sexual opportunity remains available for up to four hours.

Stendra vs. Viagra dosage

Stendra is available in three doses: 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg. The onset of action depends on the prescribed dose. For example, if you take Stendra 100 mg, it starts working within 15 minutes. However, if you take Stendra 50 mg, it may take up to 30 minutes for desired results.

Viagra is also available in three doses, i.e., 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. You can also purchase generic Viagra in a wide range of doses, such as Cenforce 25 mg, Cenforce 120 mg, and Cenforce 200 mg.

Stendra vs. Viagra cost

One of the main differences between Stendra and Viagra is their cost. Stendra tends to be more expensive than Viagra, which makes Viagra a more budget-friendly option for many users. Moreover, the price variation between the two medications can be significant, depending on factors like dosage and pharmacy. 

Although Viagra is quite affordable as compared to Stendra, it may still not be a cost-efficient method for many people. You can also purchase generic Viagra at low prices from GoodRxMedicine and say no to erection issues.

Did you know:
Stendra and Viagra are used off-label to treat Raynaud’s, in which blood vessels narrow in response to cold or stress.

Side effects

In terms of side effects, Viagra can cause mild side effects in men compared to Stendra. It can cause headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Some men also experience diarrhea, flushing, trouble sleeping, and skin redness. These side effects are temporary and may subside once your body adapts to the new medicine.

In contrast, Stendra has an advantage due to its high selectivity for the PDE5 enzyme. Avanafil in Stendra can inhibit the targeted PDE5 enzyme without significantly inhibiting other PDE isoenzymes. However, both medications are safe to use and unlikely to cause serious side effects.

Precautions

Man taking Medicine
Man taking Medicine

Viagra has certain limitations that need to be addressed before ingesting it to treat ED. It should be taken at least 30 minutes before the intended sex. This gives Viagra enough time to work efficiently. Also, Viagra should not be consumed with a high-fat meal, as it can interrupt its efficacy.

On the other hand, Stendra can be ingested 15 minutes before the intended sex due to its rapid action. Furthermore, Stendra can be consumed with or without food. 

However, it is important to understand that Viagra and Stendra are short-acting ED medications. They should be taken before sexual activity and need sexual arousal to work efficiently. 

Similarities between Stendra vs. Viagra

Like their dissimilarities, Stendra vs. Viagra also has certain similarities that define their common approach to helping you achieve long-lasting erections. Some of them are as follows:

  • Brand recognition and safety: Stendra and Viagra are two FDA-approved brand versions of Avanafil and Sildenafil. It means they have undergone various clinical and regulatory trials and are safe to use
  • Working: Both Stendra and Viagra work by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme, which facilitates smooth muscle relaxation, allowing more blood to flow through the penis
  • Interactions: PDE5 Inhibitors may also interact with Nitrates, blood pressure-lowering medicines, CYP3A4 inhibitors, and Gyanalate Cyclase Stimulators (GCS). If you take any of these medications, you are advised to inform your doctor
  • Purchasing: It is crucial to get Viagra and Stendra from a reliable source, such as trustable online or offline pharmacies
Warning:
Although both Avanafil and Sildenafil are PDE5 Inhibitors, you should never mistake taking them together or combining them with over-the-counter supplements.

Overview of Stendra vs. Viagra

The overview table below shows the similarities and differences between Stendra and Viagra based on various aspects:

AspectsStendraViagra
Active ingredientAvanafilSildenafil Citrate
Drug classPDE5 InhibitorPDE5 Inhibitor
Brand statusBrandBrand
Used for treating (on-label)Erectile DysfunctionErectile Dysfunction
Off-label usesRaynaud’s PhenomenonRaynaud’s Phenomenon, Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, Female Sexual Arousal Disorder
Onset of action15-30 minutes30-60 minutes
Stays effective for5-6 hours4 hours
Side effectsFewer side effectsViagra can cause side effects like headaches and flushing
FDA-approvalsFDA-approvedFDA-approved
Available strengths50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg
CostGenerally more expensiveQuite affordable
Market availabilitySince April 27, 2012Since 1998
ReviewsStendra has rapid action and works for longer, but it is more expensiveViagra may take longer time to work and stays effective for less duration, but it  is more affordable

Which is better, Stendra or Viagra?

We have elaborated on the key differences in Stendra vs. Viagra. Stendra offers rapid action, longer-lasting effects, and fewer risks of potential side effects, which, in some ways, Viagra lacks.

Although Stendra has many benefits, it’s quite expensive for a wider range of people. Therefore, if you are willing to pay a higher price to get an improved erection, you should choose Stendra. However, if you are looking for an affordable option and have a problem waiting for an erection, Viagra is the best option for you

You can also seek a doctor’s help to determine which option is better based on your medical history or availability.

Conclusion

Stendra vs. Viagra are two commonly prescribed ED medications but have their advantages and limitations. Stendra contains Avanafil, while Sildenafil Citrate is the active ingredient in Viagra.

Stendra has a rapid onset of action, within 15 minutes, and lasts as long as 6 hours. Viagra, comparatively, works slower and lasts for 4 hours. Both medications are available in three doses. Still, Stendra is quite expensive than Viagra. Also, Stendra has higher selectivity for the PDE5 enzyme than Viagra and is likely to cause fewer side effects.

However, they also have certain similarities, such as mechanism of action, brand recognition, interactions, and purchasing sources. Therefore, if you want a cost-effective ED treatment, Viagra will be the perfect choice. However, if you want rapid action and lasting effects, Stendra will suit you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Stendra and Viagra the same?

No, Stendra and Viagra are not the same. Stendra contains Avanafil as the active ingredient, whereas Viagra has Sildenafil Citrate. Furthermore, Stendra works within 15 minutes and lasts for 6 hours, whereas Viagra takes 30 minutes to work and lasts for 4 hours.

Is Stendra as good as Viagra?

Yes, Stendra can be as good as Viagra. Both medicines have their own pros and cons and may work differently on different individuals. There are possibilities where Viagra can work the best for you. For others, Stendra can be the right choice. Consult your doctor to make an informed decision.

Why is Stendra so expensive compared to Viagra?

Stendra is expensive compared to Viagra due to brand exclusivity. It is also possible because Stendra works more effectively than Viagra and has a low risk of side effects and rapid action. However, generic Stendra is also available in the market at affordable prices.

Can I take Stendra and Viagra together?

No, you should never take Stendra and Viagra together. Combining them can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure and lead to severe consequences. You should always take Stendra, Viagra, or other ED medicine at a gap of at least 24 hours. Consult your doctor to learn about the side effects.

Which one lasts longer, Stendra or Viagra?

Stendra lasts longer than Viagra. Stendra stays effective for 6 hours, giving you a longer opportunity to engage in sexual activity. In contrast, Viagra stays effective for 4 hours. Stendra has rapid action within 15-30 minutes, whereas Viagra may take 30-60 minutes for improved erection.

Citations:
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