Medication Profile: Avanafil

Summary or Key Points

Avanafil is a prescribed medication commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction in adults. Known for its fast-acting and effective results, it falls under the category of drugs known as phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. While it’s generally safe, it may cause some side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose or schedule, and remember, our telemedicine providers are readily available to assist you.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Stendra (Avanafil)

A ‘generic name’ refers to the official, scientific name of a medication, while the ‘brand name’ is the trademark under which the drug is sold. In this case, Avanafil is the generic name, and it’s mentioned in parenthesis.

Pharmacologic Category

Avanafil is a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, similar to medications such as Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), and Vardenafil (Levitra).

Dosing

Avanafil is indicated for the treatment of:

• Erectile Dysfunction: The initial dose is usually 100 mg, taken as needed approximately 15 minutes before sexual activity. Based on individual efficacy and tolerability, the dose may be increased to 200 mg or decreased to 50 mg. Do not take more than one dose per day. Always remember to consult with your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. Need to consult right away? Our telemedicine providers are here for you.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Avanafil is available in tablet form in the following strengths:

• 50 mg tablets
• 100 mg tablets
• 200 mg tablets

Administration Instructions

Avanafil is to be taken orally, with or without food, as needed prior to sexual activity. It should not be taken more than once per day. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. If you need assistance, our telemedicine providers are available to help.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

While Avanafil is generally well-tolerated, it may cause some side effects. These may include:

• Common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people): headache, flushing.
• Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): dizziness, sinus congestion, back pain, or palpitations.

If you experience any severe or unexpected side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Remember, you can consult one of our telemedicine providers right away if you need any help.

Contraindications

A contraindication is a condition or factor that serves as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment due to the harm that it would cause the patient. Avanafil should not be used in patients with the following conditions:

• Use of nitrates: Avanafil may increase the hypotensive effects of nitrates, leading to a severe drop in blood pressure.
• Severe hepatic impairment: Avanafil is metabolized in the liver, and its use is contraindicated in patients with severe liver disease.
• Hypersensitivity: Avanafil should not be used in patients who have a known allergy to it.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Several medications may interact with Avanafil. These include:

• Nitrates such as Nitroglycerin (Nitrostat)
• Alpha-blockers such as Tamsulosin (Flomax)
• Certain antifungals like Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
• HIV protease inhibitors like Ritonavir (Norvir)

Avanafil in Pregnancy

Currently, there’s insufficient data on the use of Avanafil during pregnancy. As a precaution, it’s generally not recommended to use this medication if you are pregnant unless specifically advised by your healthcare provider.

Avanafil while Breastfeeding

It’s unknown whether Avanafil is excreted into breast milk. Therefore, it’s not recommended to use this medication while breastfeeding unless explicitly directed by your healthcare provider.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Avanafil (Stendra), without insurance but using a GoodRx coupon, is approximately $300 to $350.

Possible Alternatives

For Erectile Dysfunction, possible alternative treatments and lifestyle changes include:

• Other PDE5 inhibitors like Sildenafil (Viagra) or Tadalafil (Cialis)
• Lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, limiting alcohol, and quitting smoking
• Counseling or psychotherapy for stress, anxiety, or other psychological factors affecting sexual performance

Before making any changes to your treatment plan, please discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine providers are readily available for consultation.

Recent Updates on Avanafil Research

Recent studies continue to confirm the safety and efficacy of Avanafil for treating erectile dysfunction. Research is also exploring the medication’s potential benefits in treating other conditions, like lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia. As always, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider about the latest research and how it might impact your treatment. If you need to consult right away, our telemedicine providers are here for you.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.