Viagra vs Spedra: Complete Comparison Guide

When choosing between Viagra and Spedra for erectile dysfunction treatment, understanding their differences helps you make an informed decision. Both medications are effective PDE5 inhibitors that work by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Viagra (sildenafil) has been trusted for over 25 years, whilst Spedra (avanafil) offers faster onset times. At EverydayMeds, we provide both branded Viagra and generic sildenafil options following consultation with our UK-licensed prescribers.

  • Viagra takes 30-60 minutes to work, Spedra works within 15-30 minutes
  • Both medications last 4-6 hours and require sexual stimulation
  • Food affects Viagra more than Spedra - fatty meals can delay Viagra's onset
  • Generic sildenafil offers the same effectiveness as branded Viagra at lower cost
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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.

Key Differences Between Viagra and Spedra

How Viagra and Spedra Work

Both Viagra (sildenafil) and Spedra (avanafil) belong to a class of medications called PDE5 inhibitors. They work by blocking the phosphodiesterase type 5 enzyme, which increases blood flow to the penis when you're sexually aroused. Neither medication causes automatic erections - sexual stimulation is still required for both to be effective.

Onset Time and Duration

The most significant difference between these treatments is how quickly they start working. Viagra typically takes 30-60 minutes to become effective, whilst Spedra can work within 15-30 minutes of taking it. This faster onset makes Spedra more suitable for spontaneous sexual activity.

Both medications can remain effective for 4-6 hours after taking them. This doesn't mean you'll have an erection for this entire time, but rather that you may find it easier to achieve and maintain erections during sexual activity within this timeframe.

Food Interactions

Viagra's effectiveness can be significantly delayed by food, particularly fatty meals, which may postpone its onset by up to 2 hours. Spedra is less affected by food, making it more convenient if you prefer not to time your meals around taking medication.

Dosage Options

Viagra is available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg tablets, with 50mg being the typical starting dose. Spedra comes in 50mg, 100mg, and 200mg tablets, usually starting at 100mg. Your prescriber will determine the most appropriate dose based on your medical history and response to treatment.

Side Effects Profile

Both medications can cause similar side effects including headaches, flushing, indigestion, and nasal congestion. Some men may experience visual disturbances with Viagra, such as a blue tinge to vision, which is less common with Spedra. Back pain and muscle aches are occasionally reported with both treatments.

Cost Considerations

Viagra is available in both branded and generic (sildenafil) formulations. Generic sildenafil contains the same active ingredient as branded Viagra but costs significantly less. At EverydayMeds, patients can choose between branded Viagra or generic sildenafil at checkout, providing flexibility based on personal preference and budget.

Who Can Take These Medications

Both treatments are suitable for adult men with erectile dysfunction, following consultation with a healthcare professional. They're not appropriate for everyone - particularly those taking nitrate medications for heart conditions, as this combination can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure.

Making Your Choice

The choice between Viagra and Spedra often comes down to personal preference and lifestyle factors. If you value faster onset and less food interaction, Spedra might be preferable. If you prefer a well-established treatment with generic options available, Viagra or sildenafil could be more suitable.

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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