Lexapro vs Stendra: side-by-side comparison
Lexapro (Anti-Depressants) and Stendra (Erectile Dysfunction (ED)) belong to different therapeutic classes and are rarely interchangeable. This page compares the medications' purposes, mechanisms and the situations where each is used.
| Property | Lexapro | Stendra |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Escitalopram | Avanafil |
| Manufacturer | Forest/Allergan | Metuchen Pharmaceuticals |
| Class | Anti-Depressants | Erectile Dysfunction (ED) |
| Strengths | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 50mg, 100mg, 200mg |
| Forms | tablet | tablet |
What's the same
Lexapro and Stendra are used in very different patients, and the points in common are limited. The main shared element is that both meet regulatory standards for efficacy and safety and benefit from pharmacist oversight.
Key differences
Lexapro belongs to Anti-Depressants while Stendra belongs to Erectile Dysfunction (ED). Indications, mechanisms and target populations differ. The comparison is most useful when a clinician has mentioned both medications and the patient wants to understand where each fits.
Mechanism and action
Lexapro: Lexapro acts by selectively inhibiting the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) at the synapse, increasing serotonin availability for postsynaptic receptors. Stendra: Avanafil selectively inhibits phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) in the corpus cavernosum, increasing cGMP and enhancing nitric-oxide-mediated vasodilation in response to sexual stimulation.
When Lexapro is preferred
Lexapro is approved for major depressive disorder and generalised anxiety disorder in adults and adolescents 12 years and older (depression) and adults (generalised anxiety).
When Stendra is preferred
Stendra is approved for erectile dysfunction in adult men.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lexapro or Stendra better? ▾
Lexapro and Stendra are not interchangeable — they treat different conditions. Asking which is "better" is meaningful only when a clinician has weighed both for the same specific clinical scenario.
Can I switch from Lexapro to Stendra? ▾
Switching between Lexapro and Stendra is rarely an appropriate decision since they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. The real question is usually whether the diagnosis calls for one medication or the other — which the prescriber resolves.
Do Lexapro and Stendra have the same side effects? ▾
No — they belong to different classes and have distinct side-effect profiles. Each medication has its own prescribing information.
More Lexapro comparisons
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.