Stendra (Avanafil) 101: How It Works, Side Effects And More – Introduction
In the sexual sphere, the way we talk about ED has changed dramatically in the past decades. Many medications are in development, and one newer option is Stendra, which has the generic name avanafil. In this post, we learn more about Stendra, how it works, side effects, and what to look for when utilizing it.
Understanding Stendra (Avanafil)
Stendra is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. It is a member of the drug class called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Stendra, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2012, was created to provide a quicker kickstart of action that promotes spontaneous sex.
How Stendra Works
The primary activity of Stendra involves inhibition of the PDE5 enzyme. Sexual stimulation normally causes the penis to produce nitric oxide, which in turn makes cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). It’s the key to a successful erection because this compound relaxes the smooth muscles and vessels, increasing blood supply to the penis.
In patients with ED, this process can be interrupted and an erection is lost. By shutting down the PDE5 enzyme, Stendra prolongs the effect of cGMP, which allows an erection to develop during sexual stimulation. The main advantage of Stendra is that the action starts very fast, usually within 15-30 minutes, so it is ideal for people who are looking for something a little more spontaneous in their sex life.
Dosage Guidelines
There are three doses of Stendra — 50 mg, 100 mg and 200 mg — and your doctor will prescribe a starting dose that is reasonable for you based on your condition, medical history, and any medications you are taking. You shouldn’t overdose and patients should consume the drug about 15-30 minutes before having sex.
Potential Side Effects
Like all medicines, Stendra can have side effects. Though many men take it without a hitch, be on your guard about the potential side effects:
Common Side Effects
Headache: Headache is one of the most common adverse effects seen in Stendra users. It can be mild to moderate. These mild symptoms may be short-lived and can go away without intervention.
Blushing: Flushing is one of the most frequent side effects, just like blushing. There is redness or warmth in the face. It’s generally subtle and short-lived.
Nasal Congestion or Runny Nose: Other minor complaints that the patients may also express include nasal congestion or a build-up of mucus that’s primarily annoying but not always fatal.
Back Pain: Back Pain is also a common response. Like all side effects, this can be either moderate or long-lasting.
Muscle Pain: The muscle pain may be in the arms, the lower and upper limbs, or the chest. These symptoms are usually mild and, if needed, could be alleviated by over-the-counter pain relievers.
Dizziness: Lightheadedness or dizziness may occur sometimes during use of Stendra. When this occurs, patients can lie down or sit.
Rubbing: Dermatitis may also include minor rashes, which tend to disappear without intervention.
Serious Side Effects
While the side effects are uncommon, they can be serious and require immediate medical intervention. Notable serious side effects include:
Sudden Vision Loss: In the extremely rare case of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, one or both eyes may suddenly be without sight. This disease requires immediate medical treatment.
Sudden Hearing Loss: Patients may develop sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
The Chest Pain or Abnormal Heartbeat: This could indicate severe cardiovascular disease, which you shouldn’t dismiss.
Priapism: If you have an erection lasting over four hours, this is considered a medical emergency that can result in permanent damage if not immediately resolved.
If a patient has severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction including coughing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, he or she should consult an emergency doctor immediately.
Precautions and Contraindications
Given that you may also have some health problems, inform your doctor before you begin the treatment with Stendra. Some conditions warrant some care, such as:
Heart Conditions: Those suffering from heart condition, including angina, heart failure, or recent heart attack, should take extreme caution while using Stendra.
Blood Pressure Variation: Increase and decrease in blood pressure is also a contraindication and the doctor should be very careful.
Liver or Kidney Disease: Because Stendra is metabolized by both liver and kidneys, dose adjustments and monitoring should be performed in patients with liver or kidney disease.
Diseases That Increase Risk of Priapism: Disorders like sickle cell anemia, and other blood dyscrasias can result in priapism and must be discussed with a doctor before medication is started.
Other contraindications include the following:
Avoid use in conjunction with nitrates: Stendra should not be taken in conjunction with nitrates-organic nitrates and nitric oxide donors, both of which are prescribed for angina pectoris, because it can cause a profound hypotension.
Precautions Against Stendra in Combination With Other PDE5 Inhibitors: Stendra is contraindicated in the context of other phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors because drug combinations pose an increased danger of side effects.
Alcohol: Drinking with Stendra can exacerbate side effects and can disrupt an erection.
Conclusion: Stendra (Avanafil) 101: How It Works, Side Effects And More
For men with erectile dysfunction, Stendra (avanafil) could prove to be an appealing drug. Since it’s fast acting and side effects are relatively mild compared to other ED medications, many of them find it appealing. But, like any medication, Stendra should be used cautiously and under a healthcare practitioner’s supervision. With knowledge of its workings, the potential side effects, and any contraindications, men can decide how to handle their libidos and regain their confidence in the bedroom.
