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Dr Clare Morrison

Article by Dr Clare Morrison

Spedra vs Viagra: Which Is More Effective for Erectile Dysfunction?


Trying to find the right erectile dysfunction treatment? We spoke to our MedExpress experts to learn more about the differences between two popular brands: Viagra and Spedra. Let’s explore them in more detail, and discover the best option available.

Background Information on Spedra

What is Spedra (Avanafil)?

Spedra is the latest medication approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Spedra contains the active ingredient Avanafil. Spedra is a treatment for adult men suffering from erectile dysfunction. For Spedra to be effective, sexual stimulation is required.

How does Spedra work?

Spedra works by helping the blood vessels in the penis to relax. This increases the blood flow into the penis, helping it stay hard when you get sexually excited. Spedra does not cure your condition. It is important to note that Spedra only works if you are sexually stimulated, and that you and your partner will still need to be aroused to get ready for sex – just as you would if you were not taking a medicine to help you.

Spedra and Viagra — at a glance

Viagra/Sildenafil Spedra
Active Ingredient Sildenafil Avanafil
Strengths 25, 50, 100 mg 50, 100, 200 mg
How long it takes to work Around 30 – 60 minutes 15 – 30 minutes
How long it lasts Around 4-6 hours Around 4-6 hours
Food Any food may slow down action and reduce effectiveness Any food may slow down action and reduce effectiveness

What’s the difference between Spedra and Viagra?

Both of these erectile dysfunction treatments are PDE5 inhibitors — a type of medication that relaxes blood vessels and encourages blood flow to the penis during sexual activity — but they contain two different ingredients. Spedra’s active ingredient is called avanafil, whereas Viagra includes sildenafil. Both of these ingredients are available to purchase under their medical names as generic medications — Viagra and Spedra are simply the branded alternatives.

Winner: Draw

Does Spedra work more quickly than Viagra (Sildenafil)?

Spedra (Avanafil) has a significantly faster onset of action compared to Viagra (Sildenafil). Spedra starts to work in around 30 minutes and in some people it may work as quickly as 15 minutes. Viagra, on the other hand, needs to be taken one hour before sexual activity.

Spedra remains effective for four to five hours, which is similar to Viagra. This does not mean that your erection will actually last that long – rather you’ll have the ability to attain an improved erection for that period of time. If you take Spedra after a large meal, it may take longer to become effective.

Winner: Spedra

Does Spedra last longer than Viagra (Sildenafil)?

Both Spedra and Viagra take effect for around four to six hours. It’s important to remember that the drugs will only work during sexual arousal. If you experience a prolonged erection, it’s recommended that you seek medical attention.

Winner: Draw 

Is Spedra more effective than Viagra?

About two-thirds of the participants in trials were able to engage in sexual activity within 15 minutes with Spedra. Throughout all trials of Spedra, all three different strength doses (50mg, 100mg and 200mg) of avanafil statistically significant improvements compared with placebo.

A clinical trial has shown that Viagra is an effective treatment for over 80 percent of men.

Winner: Draw

Conclusion

Viagra has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment for many years and is trusted by men across the world.

Spedra is a modern treatment that can work in only 15 minutes before sex – significantly faster than Viagra.

If you need a fast treatment for erectile dysfunction, you can try Spedra and see if it works for you. If you find Spedra does not have the required effect or you suffer from adverse side effects, you may want to consider trying Viagra.

Remember to always speak to a clinical expert to discuss your treatment options, alternative treatment options, and any common side effects that could occur from treatment.

Find out what treatment is suitable for you on our website.

Dr Clare Morrison
Dr Clare Morrison
Experienced General Practitioner in Hampshire since 1995, with particular interest in Nutrition, Obesity and Smoking Cessation.
Originally published August 01 2014, updated July 17 2024