Viagra vs Spedra: Comparing Side Effects and Effectiveness

When choosing between Viagra and Spedra for erectile dysfunction treatment, understanding their different side effect profiles and effectiveness is crucial. Both medications work as PDE5 inhibitors but have distinct characteristics. Viagra (sildenafil) has been established since 1998, while Spedra (avanafil) is a newer option with potentially fewer side effects. At EverydayMeds, patients can choose between branded Viagra or generic sildenafil following an online consultation with our UK-licensed prescribers.

  • Viagra may cause headaches, flushing and indigestion in up to 15% of users
  • Spedra typically has milder side effects with faster onset of action
  • Both medications can interact dangerously with nitrate medications
  • Generic sildenafil offers the same active ingredient as Viagra at lower cost
Start your free consultation

Takes less than 2 minutes to complete, 100% online

More pleasure. Less waiting. Built to last.

Get Started

Not sure which one? Here's the honest comparison.

Sildenafil
~60 min
~4 hrs
you like to plan ahead
Tadalafil (as-needed)Most prescribed
~30 min
up to 36 hrs
you want a whole weekend covered
Tadalafil Daily
always active
continuous
you never want to think about timing
Vardenafil
~15–30 min
~8 hrs
you want the fastest onset

How ED treatment works in your body.

Increases blood flow

Increases blood flow

When PDE5 is suppressed, blood is able to flow more freely through the body—including to the (you guessed it) penis.

Increase erections

Increase erections

More blood flow to the penis means harder, more satisfying erections once you're sexually stimulated.

Understanding Side Effects: Viagra vs Spedra Comparison

Common Side Effects of Viagra

Viagra (sildenafil) has been extensively studied since its introduction in 1998. The most frequently reported side effects include headaches (affecting up to 15% of users), facial flushing, indigestion, and nasal congestion. These side effects typically occur because sildenafil can affect blood vessels throughout the body, not just in the penile area. Visual disturbances, including a blue-tinted vision or increased light sensitivity, may occur in some patients due to mild effects on PDE6 enzymes in the retina.

Spedra's Side Effect Profile

Spedra (avanafil) was developed as a more selective PDE5 inhibitor, potentially resulting in fewer side effects. Clinical studies suggest that Spedra users experience headaches less frequently than with other ED medications, with rates around 9-12%. The medication is designed to have minimal impact on blood pressure and may cause less flushing and nasal congestion compared to sildenafil. This improved tolerability profile makes Spedra an attractive option for men who experience bothersome side effects with other treatments.

Onset and Duration Differences

One key advantage of Spedra is its faster onset of action, potentially working within 15-30 minutes compared to Viagra's typical 30-60 minute timeframe. Spedra's effects may last up to 6 hours, similar to Viagra's 4-6 hour duration. The faster onset can provide more spontaneity, though both medications require sexual stimulation to be effective. Food intake affects Spedra less than Viagra, where fatty meals can significantly delay effectiveness.

Choosing Between Branded and Generic Options

At EverydayMeds, patients consulting for Viagra treatment can choose between the branded version or generic sildenafil at checkout. Generic sildenafil contains the same active ingredient as Viagra but costs significantly less. Both options undergo the same rigorous UK safety standards and require prescription following consultation with our registered prescribers. This choice allows patients to access effective treatment while managing their healthcare budget according to personal preferences.

Safety Considerations and Contraindications

Both Viagra and Spedra share important safety contraindications. Neither should be taken with nitrate medications (such as GTN spray) due to dangerous blood pressure drops. Men with severe cardiovascular disease, recent heart attacks, or uncontrolled blood pressure should not use either medication without specialist approval. Our online consultation process carefully evaluates medical history and current medications to ensure safe prescribing. Patients taking alpha-blockers for prostate problems may require dose adjustments with either medication.

Clinical Effectiveness Comparison

Clinical studies show both medications achieve similar effectiveness rates, with 60-85% of men experiencing improved erections sufficient for sexual intercourse. Spedra may have slight advantages in men with diabetes or mild cardiovascular conditions due to its selectivity. However, individual responses vary considerably, and what works best depends on personal factors including underlying health conditions, other medications, and lifestyle factors. Some men may find one medication more suitable than another based on timing preferences and side effect tolerance.

What you need to know about erectile dysfunction

It's one of the most common conditions we treat, and one of the most treatable.

What is Erectile Dysfunction?
ED means finding it hard to get or keep an erection firm enough for sex. It's not unusual to have an off night; the point at which it's worth doing something is when it's happening regularly, or when it's starting to bother you.
How will I feel when I take ED medication?
For most men, nothing feels different day to day. The medication works in the background — when you're sexually aroused, it helps blood flow where it's needed, so erections come more easily and last longer. It doesn't cause arousal on its own. Some men notice mild, short-lived effects like a headache, facial flushing or a stuffy nose, which usually pass as the dose wears off.
Why do I need a prescription for ED medication?
ED treatments are prescription-only medicines in the UK because they aren't suitable for everyone — for example, alongside certain heart conditions or medications like nitrates. That's why we ask you to complete a short online consultation first. A UK-registered prescriber reviews your answers to make sure your chosen treatment is safe and right for you before it's dispensed.
Couple laughing together

How it works

Achieve your goals in just a few simple steps.

Step 1

Start Free Consultation

Select safe UK treatments. Quick answers.

Step 2

Review By Our Clinical Team

Our expert team will use your consultation as the basis of our recommendation and communicate with you.

Step 3

Get it delivered fast

We’ll deliver direct to you, as quickly as tomorrow.

Frequently asked questions