Viagra vs Spedra: Comparing ED Treatment Options

When considering erectile dysfunction treatment, many patients compare Viagra and Spedra to determine which may be most suitable. Both medications are PDE5 inhibitors that can help improve erectile function, but they differ in onset time, duration, and cost. Understanding these differences, alongside the availability of generic alternatives like sildenafil, can help you make an informed decision about your treatment options through our UK online pharmacy service.

  • Viagra typically takes 30-60 minutes to work, whilst Spedra can work within 15-30 minutes
  • Both medications last approximately 4-6 hours, though individual responses may vary
  • Generic sildenafil offers the same active ingredient as Viagra at a lower cost
  • Both require prescription following consultation with UK-licensed prescribers
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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 Your ED Medication Options

How Viagra and Spedra Compare

Viagra (sildenafil) and Spedra (avanafil) are both PDE5 inhibitors that work by increasing blood flow to the penis when sexually aroused. Viagra, manufactured by Pfizer, has been available since 1998 and contains sildenafil citrate as its active ingredient. Spedra is a newer medication containing avanafil, approved for use in the UK in 2013.

Onset and Duration Differences

One key difference between these medications is their onset time. Viagra typically begins working within 30-60 minutes of taking, whilst Spedra may work more quickly, often within 15-30 minutes. Both medications can provide effects lasting 4-6 hours, though this doesn't mean an erection will last this duration - sexual stimulation is still required for either medication to be effective.

Dosage and Administration

Viagra is available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg tablets, with 50mg being the typical starting dose. Spedra comes in 50mg, 100mg, and 200mg tablets. Both medications should be taken a maximum of once per 24 hours. Food can affect Viagra's absorption, particularly fatty meals, whilst Spedra may be less affected by food intake.

Cost Considerations and Generic Options

When comparing costs, it's worth noting that generic sildenafil provides the same active ingredient as Viagra at a significantly lower price. At EverydayMeds, patients can choose between branded Viagra and generic sildenafil during checkout, allowing you to select the option that best suits your budget whilst receiving the same therapeutic effect.

Suitability and Side Effects

Both medications have similar contraindications and aren't suitable for men taking nitrates, those with severe heart conditions, or certain other medical conditions. Common side effects may include headache, facial flushing, and nasal congestion. Some patients may find one medication more suitable than another based on their individual response and tolerability.

Accessing Treatment Through EverydayMeds

Both Viagra and its generic equivalent sildenafil are available through our UK online pharmacy following consultation with our UK-licensed prescribers. Our clinical assessment ensures the medication is suitable for your individual circumstances, taking into account your medical history and current medications. The consultation process is straightforward and confidential, allowing you to access treatment discretely from home.

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.
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