Stendra is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It contains avanafil as its active ingredient, a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor that helps men achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Stendra is supplied as a pill in three strengths: 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg. In Hong Kong, Stendra is classified as a prescription-only medicine and must be dispensed by a licensed pharmacist under a physician’s order.
Avanafil belongs to the PDE5 inhibitor class. In the penis, sexual stimulation releases nitric oxide, which activates an enzyme called guanylate cyclase. This enzyme raises the level of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a molecule that relaxes smooth muscle in the corpus cavernosum and allows blood to flow into the erectile tissue.
PDE5 is the enzyme that degrades cGMP. By selectively blocking PDE5, avanafil preserves cGMP, prolonging smooth-muscle relaxation and enhancing blood inflow. The result is an erection that can be maintained during sexual activity. Avanafil has a rapid onset of action, with clinical studies showing effective erections within 15-30 minutes after ingestion. The drug’s effects typically last for up to 6 hours, although the duration can vary among individuals.
These effects are generally mild and improve with continued use or dose adjustment.
If any of these serious events occur, seek emergency care.
Individual dosing must be personalized by a qualified prescriber based on medical history, concomitant medications, and response to therapy.
Routine laboratory monitoring is not required for most men taking Stendra, but liver and kidney function tests may be ordered if underlying disease exists.
This article provides educational information about Stendra and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including use for unapproved indications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. The content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical recommendations. Always consult a physician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.
Yes. Stendra can be ingested with or without food. A high-fat meal may slightly delay the onset of action, but efficacy remains unchanged.
The medication’s effect typically lasts up to six hours, allowing flexibility for timing of sexual activity within that window.
Many antihypertensive drugs are compatible, but combining Stendra with nitrates is strictly prohibited. Patients on alpha-blockers or other vasodilators should discuss dose timing with their prescriber.
A erection lasting longer than four hours (priapism) is a medical emergency. Seek immediate care at an emergency department; early treatment reduces the risk of permanent damage.
Stendra is effective for most cases of psychogenic or organic ED when sufficient sexual stimulation occurs. It may be less effective in severe neurogenic or hormonal causes; a physician can assess underlying factors.
Certain herbal products, such as ginkgo biloba or yohimbe, can influence blood pressure or platelet function. Inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you use before starting Stendra.
Yes, provided you carry the prescription label and keep the tablets in their original packaging. Some countries require a doctor's note for controlled medicines; verify local regulations before departure.
Coverage depends on the specific health plan and physician’s prescription. Patients should inquire with their insurer about reimbursement policies for PDE5 inhibitors.
Stendra (avanafil) has a faster onset of action, often within 15 minutes, compared with sildenafil, which typically requires 30-60 minutes. The three available doses also allow more flexible titration. Both share a similar mechanism of PDE5 inhibition.
