Stendra vs Viagra Professional: side-by-side comparison
Stendra (Avanafil) and Viagra Professional (Sildenafil Citrate) both belong to the Erectile Dysfunction (ED) class. They share clinical context but use different active ingredients. The choice between them depends on mechanism nuances, side-effect profile and individual response.
| Property | Stendra | Viagra Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Avanafil | Sildenafil Citrate |
| Manufacturer | Metuchen Pharmaceuticals | Pfizer |
| Class | Erectile Dysfunction (ED) | Erectile Dysfunction (ED) |
| Strengths | 50mg, 100mg, 200mg | 100mg |
| Forms | tablet | sublingual tablet |
What's the same
Stendra and Viagra Professional both belong to the Erectile Dysfunction (ED) class and are used for partially overlapping indications. The active ingredients — Avanafil vs Sildenafil Citrate — share the same therapeutic approach, so many safety and management points carry across both.
Key differences
Meaningful differences are in active ingredient (Avanafil vs Sildenafil Citrate), strengths (50mg, 100mg, 200mg vs 100mg), forms (tablet vs sublingual tablet), and the mechanism, half-life and side-effect nuances that distinguish members of the class.
Mechanism and action
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. Viagra Professional: Sildenafil citrate inhibits PDE5, allowing the cyclic GMP produced during sexual arousal to accumulate in penile tissue, which relaxes the smooth muscle of the penile arteries and increases blood inflow.
When Stendra is preferred
Stendra is approved for erectile dysfunction in adult men.
When Viagra Professional is preferred
Viagra Professional is intended for adult men with erectile dysfunction.
Frequently asked questions
Is Stendra or Viagra Professional better? ▾
There is no single answer. Stendra and Viagra Professional both belong to the Erectile Dysfunction (ED) class but differ in mechanism nuances, half-life and side-effect profile. Preference depends on the patient, the prescriber and prior response to other therapies.
Can I switch from Stendra to Viagra Professional? ▾
Switching within the Erectile Dysfunction (ED) class is done under supervision, typically using equivalent doses and a follow-up period to confirm response and tolerance. It is not a self-directed decision.
Do Stendra and Viagra Professional have the same side effects? ▾
They share many of the Erectile Dysfunction (ED) class side effects, with differences from mechanism and dose. Each medication's prescribing information lists specifics.
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The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.