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Viagra vs Stendra
Introduction
For patients with erectile dysfunction (ED), specific medications that enhance the blood flow to the penis can aid in producing and maintaining an erection. Viagra and Stendra are two such drugs prescribed for ED. Both work by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, but they each have different pharmacological profiles affecting their onset and duration of action.
Viagra contains sildenafil citrate, which belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It works by relaxing muscles found in the walls of blood vessels, enhancing blood flow to particular areas of your body like the penis.
Stendra, on the other hand, contains avanafil which is also a PDE5 inhibitor but has a faster onset than sildenafil. Thus it can be taken closer to sexual activity time compared to Viagra.
Each medication's effectiveness will vary from individual to individual; however both have been shown effective in managing symptoms related to ED.
Viagra vs Stendra Side By Side
| Attribute | Viagra | Stendra |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Viagra | Stendra |
| Contraindications | Should not be taken with nitrates for chest pain or heart problems | Should not be taken with nitrates for chest pain or heart problems |
| Cost | Approximately $65 per use for brand-name, $1 to $20 per tablet for generic | Approximately $60 per use for brand-name, varies for generic |
| Generic Name | Sildenafil | Avanafil |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Priapism, sudden loss of vision or hearing | Priapism, sudden vision loss |
| Severe Drug Interactions | Nitrates for chest pain, some antifungal medications, some HIV/AIDS medications | Nitrates for chest pain, some antifungal medications, some HIV/AIDS medications |
| Typical Dose | 50 mg, taken as needed about one hour before sexual activity | 100 mg, taken as needed about 15 minutes before sexual activity |
What is Viagra?
Sildenafil (the generic name for Viagra) was the pioneer in the PDE5 inhibitors class of drugs, bringing a revolutionary step forward from previous treatment options for erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil received FDA approval in 1998. Viagra works by enhancing blood flow to the penis, effectively maintaining an erection when sexual arousal occurs. It is prescribed primarily for treating erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. While its primary effect is on phosphodiesterase-5 enzymes found predominantly in the penis and lungs, it also has minor influences on other related enzymes.
On the other hand, Avanafil (Stendra), another drug belonging to this same class of PDE5 inhibitors but approved more recently by FDA (in 2012), has shown benefits over Viagra like faster onset time and fewer side effects due to selective inhibition of phosphodiesterase-5 enzymes with minimal influence on other related enzymes.
What conditions is Viagra approved to treat?
Viagra is approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) and pulmonary arterial hypertension:
- Erectile dysfunction, a common condition in men where there's difficulty getting or maintaining an erection suitable for sexual intercourse
- Pulmonary arterial hypertension, a type of high blood pressure that affects arteries in the lungs and right side of the heart.
How does Viagra help with these illnesses?
Viagra assists in managing erectile dysfunction by increasing the amount of nitric oxide available within the vascular system in the penis. It does this by inhibiting a specific enzyme, phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5), leading to an increase in cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). This chemical is crucial for relaxing smooth muscle cells and dilating blood vessels - processes that enhance blood flow into the penis during sexual arousal, thus facilitating an erection.
Stendra works similarly to Viagra as it also increases nitric oxide levels by inhibiting PDE-5. However, Stendra typically acts faster than Viagra; many men notice its effects within 15 minutes of administration compared to Viagra which may take up to one hour before becoming effective.
Both medications are efficient at treating erectile dysfunction, but differences in onset time and duration of action can help patients choose what best fits their needs and lifestyle.
What is Stendra?
Stendra, also known as Avanafil, is a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Similar to Viagra, it works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. However, Stendra has some distinctive advantages over Viagra: it can start working in as little as 15 minutes and its effects last up to six hours. Moreover, Stendra is less likely to interfere with certain medications or cause visual disturbances – side effects sometimes associated with Viagra use.
Approved by the FDA in 2012, Stendra offers a quicker onset of action and fewer interactions with food and alcohol compared to Viagra. This makes it potentially more convenient for many users who value spontaneity when dealing with their condition. However, like all drugs used for this purpose including Viagra itself, caution must be exercised especially in people with cardiovascular disease.
What conditions is Stendra approved to treat?
Stendra is approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Unlike Viagra, Stendra can start working in as little as 15 minutes and lasts up to 6 hours. This makes it a viable option for men who need a more spontaneous solution for sexual activity rather than having to plan ahead. It's also worth noting that Stendra has fewer side effects compared to Viagra, which includes less incidence of visual disturbances and flushing.
How does Stendra help with these illnesses?
Stendra, like Viagra, is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor and plays an important role in the treatment of erectile dysfunction by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, a chemical that relaxes smooth muscles in the penis during sexual stimulation and allows increased blood flow. Stendra works faster than Viagra typically taking effect within 15 to 30 minutes compared to an hour for Viagra. It also boasts fewer side effects such as facial flushing and headache due to its more selective action on PDE5 enzymes. This makes it potentially better tolerated and could be preferred when a patient does not respond well or has significant side effects from other typical ED medications such as Viagra.
How effective are both Viagra and Stendra?
Both sildenafil (Viagra) and avanafil (Stendra) are effective phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors used in treating erectile dysfunction, and were initially approved by the FDA with a gap of nearly 15 years. Since they act on the same enzyme but have different chemical structures, they may be prescribed under varying circumstances. The effectiveness of sildenafil and avanafil was explored in numerous clinical trials; both drugs demonstrated similar efficacy in managing symptoms of erectile dysfunction as well as similar safety profiles.
A comparative study between sildenafil and avanafil showed that while both medications effectively treat erectile dysfunction, Stendra's effects kick in quicker than Viagra's - often within 15 minutes compared to Viagra’s half an hour or more. However, it should be noted that Stendra is much newer than Viagra and therefore doesn't have as extensive a track record.
Several reviews indicate that sildenafil has been found consistently effective starting from the first dosage taken, with its side effect profile being well-documented over many years of use. Sildenafil has become one of the most widely recognized treatments for erectile dysfunction globally. It typically requires about an hour before sexual activity to take effect.
On the other hand, recent studies suggest that Avanafil might be slightly better tolerated compared to other PDE-5 inhibitors like Sildenafil due to fewer side effects such as flushing, nasal congestion or headache; however more research is needed given its relatively recent introduction into medical practice.
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At what dose is Viagra typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Viagra usually start at 50 mg, taken as needed approximately one hour before sexual activity. However, it can be adjusted to a range from 25–100 mg based on effectiveness and tolerability. It should not be taken more than once a day. On the other hand, Stendra's recommended starting dose is 100 mg, also taken as needed approximately 15 minutes before sexual activity. The dosage can then be increased or decreased between a range of 50-200mg depending on the individual's response and tolerance level. Like Viagra, Stendra should not be used more than once per day.
At what dose is Stendra typically prescribed?
Stendra treatment for erectile dysfunction is typically initiated at a dosage of 100 mg/day, taken approximately 15 minutes prior to sexual activity. The dose can then be increased or decreased based on effectiveness and tolerability, with the maximum recommended dosing frequency being once per day. If needed, the dosage may be increased up to 200 mg or reduced to 50 mg. Although Stendra can be effective as early as approximately 15 minutes after taking it, this varies between individuals so some men might find it works better when taken up to half an hour before sexual activity. Always remember not to exceed one dose in a single day regardless of strength.
What are the most common side effects for Viagra?
Common side effects of both Viagra and Stendra can include:
- Headache
- Flushing (redness, warmth)
- Upset stomach (dyspepsia) or indigestion
- Abnormal vision (changes in color vision, blurred vision)
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Back pain
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Dizziness -Rash
More serious side effects can include an erection that won't go away (priapism), sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, and sudden hearing decrease or hearing loss. These medications should be taken with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Viagra?
While Viagra and Stendra are generally safe, they can cause similar side effects in some individuals. Here's what you should watch out for:
- Signs of severe allergic reactions: Hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the face or throat
- Vision changes: Sudden vision loss or blurred vision; sensitivity to light; seeing blue tints around objects or having trouble distinguishing between green and blue colors
- Cardiovascular symptoms: Chest pain, irregular heartbeat (too fast/slow), shortness of breath; these drugs can sometimes lead to serious cardiovascular events especially in those with pre-existing heart conditions
- Prolonged erections lasting more than 4 hours (priapism). This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Also note that both Viagra and Stendra might interact negatively with certain medications used for treating high blood pressure, HIV/AIDS, fungal infections among others. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
What are the most common side effects for Stendra?
When considering the use of Stendra, you might experience some common side effects such as:
- Headache
- Flushing or redness in your face, neck, or chest
- Cold symptoms like a stuffy nose and sore throat
- Back pain and muscle discomfort
- Dizziness
- Nausea or upset stomach Though these aren't all of the possible side effects, they are among the most commonly reported. It's important to note that while both Viagra and Stendra help with erectile dysfunction, their side effect profiles do differ slightly. Always consult with your healthcare provider about which medication may be best for you based on potential risks versus benefits.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Stendra?
Although Stendra is generally well-tolerated, it may cause significant side effects in some individuals. These can include:
- The manifestation of an allergic reaction: symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face or throat
- Vision changes or sudden vision loss
- Hearing impairment or ringing in the ears
- Symptoms indicating a heart condition such as chest pain, heart palpitations, and dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the hands or feet
- A light-headed feeling like you might pass out
If any of these occur while taking Stendra, immediate medical attention should be sought to address potential complications and adjust treatment if necessary.
Contraindications for Viagra and Stendra?
Both Viagra and Stendra, along with most other erectile dysfunction medications, can cause side effects in some people. If you notice symptoms like sudden vision loss or hearing loss, chest pain or heart attack symptoms, erection that is painful or lasts longer than 4 hours - seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Viagra nor Stendra should be taken if you are taking nitrates for chest pain or heart problems. This includes nitroglycerin (Nitrostat, Nitrolingual), isosorbide dinitrate (Dilatrate-SR, Isordil), and isosorbide mononitrate (Monoket). Taking these drugs with Viagra or Stendra could suddenly drop your blood pressure to an unsafe level. Always inform your physician about all the medications you are currently using; nitrates will require a period of at least 24 hours to clear from the system before either Viagra or Stendra can be safely used.
How much do Viagra and Stendra cost?
For the brand-name versions of these erectile dysfunction drugs:
- The price for 6 tablets of Viagra (100 mg) averages around $390, which works out to approximately $65 per use, based on typical usage patterns.
- For Stendra (200 mg), the average cost for 6 tablets is about $360, working out to roughly $60 per use.
Thus, if you're using either drug with similar frequency and dose strength, Viagra will be slightly more expensive. However, it's important to remember that cost should not be your primary consideration when deciding which medication is right for you.
In terms of generic alternatives:
- Sildenafil (the active component in Viagra) can range from as little as $1 up to around $20 per tablet depending on where it's purchased.
- Avanafil (generic form of Stendra) prices vary but are generally less than the branded version.
Remember that while generics offer substantial savings over their branded counterparts, they usually aren't available until after patent protection expires on the original product. Also note that some people may respond differently to different medications due to individual variations in how drugs are metabolized or cause side effects. Always consult a healthcare professional before making any changes regarding your medication regimen.
Popularity of Viagra and Stendra
Sildenafil, also known as Viagra, was estimated to have been prescribed to about 1.7 million people in the US in 2020. Sildenafil accounted for just over 35% of erectile dysfunction prescriptions in the US. Now available as a generic medication, it has maintained its popularity since being introduced by Pfizer.
Avanafil (Stendra) is another medication used for erectile dysfunction but it is less commonly prescribed than Sildenafil. In the U.S during 2020, Avanafil accounted for just under 5% of all erectile dysfunction prescriptions. Although not as well-known or widely-used as Sildenafil, Avanafil has certain advantages such as taking effect more quickly and having fewer side-effects which might make it a suitable alternative choice depending on individual patient needs.
Conclusion
Both Viagra (sildenafil) and Stendra (avanafil) are well-established treatment options for erectile dysfunction, with numerous clinical studies supporting their efficacy over placebo treatments. Both drugs work by inhibiting a specific enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5, leading to increased blood flow to the penis when sexually stimulated. However, they differ in terms of onset and duration of action; Viagra typically takes about 30-60 minutes to take effect and lasts around 4 hours, while Stendra often works within 15-30 minutes and can last up to six hours.
Viagra is considered a first-line treatment option due its long-standing history of effective use, whereas Stendra tends to be used as an alternative in patients who did not respond well or had side effects from other PDE5 inhibitors such as sildenafil.
Both drugs are available in generic form which represents significant cost savings especially for patients who must pay out of pocket. The side effect profile is similar between the two drugs with common adverse events including headaches, flushing, nasal congestion and back pain. However, it's important that men using these medications monitor their response carefully - if erections last longer than four hours or sudden vision or hearing loss occur they should seek immediate medical attention.
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Refrences
- Licht, M. R. (1999, February). Use of oral sildenafil [Viagra] in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Comprehensive Therapy. Springer Science and Business Media LLC.http://doi.org/10.1007/bf02889601
- Turko, I. V., Ballard, S. A., Francis, S. H., & Corbin, J. D. (1999, July 1). Inhibition of Cyclic GMP-Binding Cyclic GMP-Specific Phosphodiesterase (Type 5) by Sildenafil and Related Compounds. Molecular Pharmacology. American Society for Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET).http://doi.org/10.1124/mol.56.1.124
- Kumar, M., Pathade, A. D., Gupta, S. V., Goyal, S., Rath, D., Thakre, M., … Mittal, R. (2022, January 26). Efficacy and safety of avanafil as compared with sildenafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: A randomized, double blind, multicenter clinical trial. International Journal of Urology. Wiley.http://doi.org/10.1111/iju.14785
- Jackson, G., Montorsi, P., & Cheitlin, M. D. (2006, September). Cardiovascular safety of sildenafil citrate (Viagra®): An updated perspective. Urology. Elsevier BV.http://doi.org/10.1016/j.urology.2006.05.047
- Sanford, M. (2013, August 17). Avanafil: A Review of Its Use in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction. Drugs & Aging. Springer Science and Business Media LLC.http://doi.org/10.1007/s40266-013-0112-x
- Gingell, C., Sultana, S. R., Wulff, M. B., & Gepi-Attee, S. (2004, September 1). Duration of Action of Sildenafil Citrate in Men with Erectile Dysfunction. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. Oxford University Press (OUP).http://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2004.04026.x