Compare Avanafil with Viagra: Key Differences and What Works Best

When you're looking for an erectile dysfunction treatment, Avanafil, a fast-acting PDE5 inhibitor used to treat ED. Also known as Stendra, it's designed to work quickly and with fewer side effects than older options. Many people turn to Viagra, the original brand-name sildenafil for erectile dysfunction. Also known as sildenafil citrate, it's been the go-to choice for over 20 years. Both drugs help you get and keep an erection, but they’re not the same. Avanafil kicks in as fast as 15 minutes for some men, while Viagra usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. That matters if you’re planning something spontaneous.

Side effects are where things get interesting. Viagra is more likely to cause headaches, facial flushing, and upset stomach—especially at higher doses. Avanafil has a cleaner profile; studies show fewer people report those issues. It also doesn’t interact as strongly with fatty meals, so you don’t need to plan your dose around dinner. If you’ve tried Viagra and felt like the trade-off wasn’t worth it, Avanafil might be a better fit. But neither drug works without sexual stimulation. They don’t magically create arousal—they just make it easier for your body to respond to it.

Cost and availability also play a role. Viagra has generic versions that are cheap and widely available. Avanafil is still mostly brand-name, which means it often costs more. But if you’ve tried generics and still feel sluggish or dizzy afterward, paying a bit more for Avanafil could be worth it. Both drugs require a prescription. Neither is safe if you take nitrates for heart problems. And if you’re on blood pressure meds, talk to your doctor before switching.

What you’ll find below is a real-world look at how these two drugs compare—not just in clinical studies, but in how people actually use them. We’ve pulled together posts that break down side effects, timing, effectiveness, and even how they stack up against other ED options like Cialis and Stendra. You’ll see what works for different lifestyles, what doesn’t, and why some men stick with one while others switch. This isn’t theory. It’s what people are experiencing right now.