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Stendra vs Viagra: Which to Choose?

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Category: Erectile Dysfunction
Published: 18, Apr 2025 Last Updated: 19, Apr 2025
Stendra vs Viagra: Which to Choose?

Viagra and Stendra are the most popular medications when it comes to treating Erectile Dysfunction. Both of these medications belong to the PDE-5 inhibitor class of drugs. Despite their similar mechanism of action, these medications differ in several key aspects. Choosing between Stendra and Viagra depends on its effectiveness, duration and personal tolerance. 

In this blog, we will discuss Stendra vs Viagra and help you determine the best choice for you. 

Key Takeaways

Stendra, manufactured by Vivus Inc., is an FDA-approved PDE-5 inhibitor drug containing an active ingredient called Avanafil. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the walls of blood vessels in the penis. 

Similar to Stendra, Viagra is an FDA-approved drug containing Sildenafil Citrate. It is similar to Avanafil in its mechanism of action. The drug is manufactured by Pfizer, a leading global pharmaceutical company. Listed below is the tabular format of the key facts about Viagra and Stendra:

Features 

Stendra 

Viagra 

Class of Drug

PDE-5 inhibitor 

PDE-5 inhibitor 

Regulatory Status

FDA approved 

FDA approved 

FDA Approval

April 12, 2012 

March 27, 1998

Manufactured By

Vivus Inc. 

Pfizer 

Generic Name 

Avanafil 

Sildenafil Citrate 

Pros and Cons: Viagra vs Stendra

When comparing Stendra vs Viagra, understanding the pros and cons of the two will help you choose:  

Pros of Viagra:

  • Available as brand-name drugs and generic versions.

  • Is cheaper compared to Stendra.

  • FDA-approved to treat Pulmonary Arterial Disorder.

Cons of Viagra:

  • Longer onset of action.

  • May not work in some men, whose ED stems from diabetes and other diseases.

  • More side effects.

Pros of Stendra:

  • Faster onset of action. 

  • Lasts longer.

  • Well tolerated by men.

Cons of Stendra

  • More expensive. 
  • Fewer generic versions are available.
  • Newer drug.

As Viagra was approved by the FDA in 1998, there are many generic versions of the drug available in the US market. However, Stendra, being a newer drug, has very few generic versions. This setback does not allow the comparison of Stendra and Viagra on all levels. 

Comparative Analysis: What Works Better?

Let us compare and contrast Stendra vs Viagra in a tabular form. 

Features 

Stendra 

Viagra 

Dosages 

50mg, 100mg, 200mg

20mg,25mg,50mg,100mg

Potency 

Less potent than Viagra

More potent 

Treats 

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction 

Generic Availability 

Available 

Available 

For Whom 

Adult men 

Adult men 

Duration/Half-Life 

6 hours 

4-5 hours 

Standard Dosage

100mg/day

50mg/day 

Onset of Action

15 minutes

1 hour 

Storage 

Store the tablets at room temperature, keeping them away from excessive heat and moisture. Avoid storing them in the bathroom.

Store the tablets at room temperature, keeping them away from excessive heat and moisture. Avoid storing them in the bathroom.

Therefore, Viagra is available in more strengths and showcases more potency. On the other hand, Stendra is characterised by a fast onset of action and better durability. 

Side Effects: Stendra vs Viagra

When comparing Stendra vs Viagra, taking side effects into account is crucial. Both being PDE-5 inhibitors show similar side effects, although differing in terms of frequency. Common side effects of Viagra (Sildenafil) include:

  • Dizziness

  • Rash

  • Nausea 

  • Diarrhea 

  • Nasal congestion 

  • Headache 

  • Flushing 

  • Back, arm, leg or muscle pain

  • Upset stomach 

Serious side effects of Viagra:

  • Priapism (Prolonged Erection)

  • Vision loss

  • Hearing loss

  • Low blood pressure 

  • Nosebleeds 

(Disclaimer: If you face any serious side effects such as sudden vision or hearing loss, seek immediate medical care)

Now, let us explore the side effects of Stendra (Avanafil):

  • Headache 

  • Flushing 

  • Back pain 

  • Common cold symptoms such as  sore throat, runny nose, cough

Serious side effects of Stendra:

  • Severe allergic reactions

  • Prolonged erections

  • Hearing loss

  • Low blood pressure 

Stendra has fewer side effects than Viagra because the medicine very selectively binds to the PDE-5 enzyme. Viagra, on the other hand, causes more frequent side effects.  

Stendra or Viagra: Cost Comparison

An average supply of 30 pills of Viagra costs about $2600-$3500 whereas the average Stendra’s cost is around $2000-$2500. From the surface, it may seem that Viagra is costlier than Stendra. However, generic versions of Viagra are available which are priced as low as $2/tablet. 

The generic versions also contain the same active ingredient Sildenafil and are FDA-approved. Taking these factors into account, the average cost of generic Viagra is cheaper compared to generic Avanafil.

Stendra also has generic versions, however, they are not as extensive as Viagra. In this sense, Stendra falls under the expensive category. 

Cost of Sildenafil (Generic Viagra)

Cost of Avanafil (Generic Stendra)

$2/tablet

$3.8/tablet 

Drug/ Disease Interactions 

Stendra is known to interact with 310 drugs, whereas Viagra interacts with 364 drugs. This increases the chance of side effects while taking Viagra as compared to Stendra. But there also lie some similarities. 

  • People taking Viagra or Stendra should strictly avoid any medicines containing nitrates like nitroglycerin. This combination is dangerous and can lead to fatal results. 

  • Patients should also avoid alpha-blockers, riociguat, and blood pressure medications.

  • Furthermore, patients should avoid alcohol consumption while taking Stendra or Viagra, as it may worsen the side effects.

Drug interactions of Stendra:

  • Amyl nitrite 

  • Ceritinib

  • Darunavir 

  • Ketoconazole 

  • Lopinavir 

  • Ritonavir 

  • Voriconazole 

  • Nicardipine 

  • Grapefruit 

Drug interactions of Viagra:

  • Acebutolol 

  • Betaxolol 

  • Carvedilol

  • Bicalutamide 

  • Esmolol 

  • Grapefruit 

  • Labetalol 

(Disclaimer: There are many other interactions not listed here. Please check with your doctor to know more about the drugs to avoid.) 

Moreover, Stendra is known to interact with:

  • Renal dysfunction

  • Alcoholism 

  • Liver disease 

  • Hearing loss 

  • Retinitis pigmentosa 

  • Seizure disorders 

  • Cardiovascular disease

On the other hand, Viagra interacts with:

  • Cardiovascular disease

  • Liver disease

  • Priapism

  • Alcoholism 

  • Sickle cell disease

  • Bleeding disorders 

  • Visual disorders

  • Hearing loss

  • Renal dysfunction

Always inform your doctor about any past medical history before consuming either of the two pills. 

How to Choose What is Best for You?

When deciding between Stendra and Viagra, the choice largely depends on your personal preferences and needs. Stendra is known for its quicker onset of action and longer duration, but it tends to be more expensive. On the other hand, Viagra, though also pricey, is better tolerated by men. 

Ultimately, the best way to determine which medication is right for you is to consult with a healthcare professional. They will assess your medical history and individual tolerance to help you choose the pill that will work most effectively for your needs.

Conclusion 

Erectile Dysfunction is one of the most widely prevalent men's sexual disorders. Stendra and Viagra both offer effective solutions to manage ED and improve one's sexual life. Ultimately, the question of Stendra vs Viagra depends on medical considerations, tolerance, personal preference and affordability. In such a situation, consulting a medical professional is the best option for you. They can determine the better and safer option. 

Lead your sexual life with confidence and shop Stendra or Viagra from Indogenmed today! 

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Does Stendra give you an erection?

Yes, Stendra is an ED medication designed to assist men with erectile dysfunction. It does not create an erection on its own and requires sexual arousal to be effective. If you do not have ED, taking Stendra may lead to unwanted side effects. It should be used with caution and only as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

  1. What is the strongest Erectile Dysfunction pill?

Tadalafil is the strongest ED pill based on its duration of action. It helps you get and maintain an erection for up to 36 hours. 

  1. Is Stendra more effective than Viagra?

While both medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis, Stendra is more selective in its action.

  1. Who manufactures Stendra?

Vivus Inc. manufactures Stendra in the US, India, Canada and South America. There are other manufacturers who manufacture generic versions of the same. 

  1. Who manufactures Viagra?

Pfizer is the inventor and manufacturer of Viagra. 

  1. What does Viagra contain?

Viagra contains an active ingredient known as Sildenafil Citrate, a PDE-5 inhibitor. 

  1. How much Stendra should I take?

The general dosage for Stendra starts from 100mg by oral route. 

  1. Why is Stendra so expensive?

Stendra is a newer and branded drug, and fewer generic versions of the medicine are available. Therefore, Stendra is expensive.

  1. Is Viagra cheaper?

No, Viagra is not necessarily cheaper than Stendra. However, generic versions of Viagra are available with an average cost in the US ranging from $60 to $150. On the other hand, generic version of Stendra is available starting from $50. 

  1. Do I need a prescription for Stendra? 

Yes, Stendra is a prescription drug and requires a doctor’s prescription. It is not an over-the-counter drug. 

Disclaimer: The blog is for informational purposes and does not intend to provide medical expertise or prescription. Always consult a doctor before buying any ED pills.

Reference:

https://www.drugs.com/compare/stendra-vs-viagra

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-165587/stendra-oral/details

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7418/sildenafil-oral/details

Disclaimer

Indogenmed’s primary goal is to provide expert-reviewed, accurate, and reliable information to its users. However, the information provided here is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. It is for informational purposes only and may not cover every aspect of specific health conditions, lab tests, medications, potential side effects, drug interactions, warnings, or alerts. We encourage you to consult your doctor for any medical concerns or questions. Our aim is to support, not replace, the vital doctor-patient relationship.