What is Spedra (Avanafil)?

Avanafil is a prescription medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. It belongs to a group of medicines known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. By relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, avanafil helps increase blood flow during sexual stimulation. This makes it easier to achieve and maintain a firm erection suitable for sexual activity.

In the UK and Europe, avanafil is available under the brand name Spedra. It is taken as a tablet and comes in strengths of 50mg, 100mg, and 200mg. One of the key advantages of avanafil compared with older ED medicines such as Viagra is its rapid onset of action. For many men, it can start working in as little as 15 minutes, offering a faster and more spontaneous response.

Avanafil is not an aphrodisiac and only works when you are sexually aroused. It is generally well tolerated, but like all medicines it may cause side effects, the most common being headache, flushing, and nasal congestion. A prescriber will confirm the most suitable dose for your needs and overall health.

What is Avanafil (Spedra) Used For?

Avanafil, sold under the brand name Spedra, is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. Erectile dysfunction is the ongoing difficulty in getting or keeping an erection that is firm enough for sexual activity.

Spedra works by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection. It does not increase sexual desire and only works if you are aroused.

Spedra can be prescribed for men who want a fast-acting treatment for ED, as it can start working in as little as 15 minutes and lasts for several hours.

How Avanafil (Spedra) Works

Avanafil, the active ingredient in Spedra, belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It works by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow in when you are sexually aroused. This improved circulation helps you achieve and maintain an erection that is firm enough for sexual activity.

Spedra does not cause an erection on its own. Sexual stimulation is still required for the medicine to be effective. What makes Spedra different from some older erectile dysfunction treatments is its fast onset of action. For many men, it can start working in as little as 15 minutes, giving more flexibility and spontaneity. The effects can last for several hours, allowing for natural sexual activity without the need to plan too far ahead.

When to Consider Avanafil (Spedra)

You may consider Avanafil (Spedra) if you have ongoing difficulties getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It is particularly suitable for men who want a fast-acting erectile dysfunction treatment, as it can start working within 15 minutes and lasts for several hours.

Spedra may be a good option if:

You have tried other ED medicines, such as sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis), and want a treatment with a quicker onset.
You prefer a medicine that allows for greater flexibility and spontaneity, rather than planning sexual activity far in advance.
Your doctor has confirmed that it is safe for you to use a PDE5 inhibitor based on your medical history and current health.
It is not suitable for everyone. Men with certain health conditions such as severe heart disease, low blood pressure, or those taking nitrate medicines should not use Spedra. A consultation with a prescriber will confirm whether this treatment is appropriate for you.

Who Should Not Use Avanafil (Spedra)

Avanafil (Spedra) is not suitable for everyone. You should not use this medicine if you:

Are allergic to avanafil or any of the ingredients in the tablet
Take nitrate medicines for chest pain (angina), such as nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate, or isosorbide dinitrate, as combining them with Spedra can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure
Take medicines known as guanylate cyclase stimulators (for example, riociguat) used to treat pulmonary hypertension
Have serious heart or liver problems
Have recently had a stroke, heart attack, or severe low blood pressure
Have certain rare eye conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa or have previously lost vision due to non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION)
Spedra should also be used with caution if you have other medical conditions such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, kidney disease, or bleeding disorders. A prescriber will check your medical history to confirm whether this treatment is safe and appropriate for you.

Can You Buy Avanafil (Spedra) Over the Counter?

No, Avanafil (Spedra) is not available to buy over the counter in the UK. It is a prescription-only medicine, which means you need a prescription from a qualified prescriber before you can obtain it. This ensures the treatment is safe and appropriate for your health, as erectile dysfunction medicines are not suitable for everyone.

The only erectile dysfunction medicine currently available without a prescription in the UK is Viagra Connect, which contains a lower dose of sildenafil. Spedra does not have an over-the-counter equivalent at this time.

At 123Meds, you can request Avanafil (Spedra) through a secure online consultation. A UK-registered prescriber will review your answers, and if the treatment is suitable, your prescription will be dispensed by a UK pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your home.

Alternative Medications

There are several alternative medications available for treating erectile dysfunction (ED):

Sildenafil (Viagra): Known for its rapid onset, sildenafil typically starts working within 30-60 minutes and provides effects lasting for 4-5 hours.
Levitra (Vardenafil): Particularly effective for men with diabetes-related ED, Levitra is known for its safety profile. It has a similar duration of action as Viagra but may work better in individuals with specific health conditions. It is also less likely to cause certain side effects compared to other ED medications.
Cialis (Tadalafil): Known for its long-lasting effects, Cialis remains active for up to 36 hours, offering greater flexibility and spontaneity. It's often called the "weekend pill" because one dose can cover a full day and night. This makes it a popular choice for those who prefer less planning around sexual activity.
Alprostadil: Available as an injection or urethral suppository, Alprostadil delivers medication directly to the penis. It by passes systemic circulation, reducing the likelihood of general side effects. This option is ideal for individuals who cannot use oral medications.

Consult a healthcare provider to determine which treatment is best suited to your individual needs, as these alternatives may work differently depending on personal health and preferences.

Avanafil (Spedra) should always be taken exactly as directed by your prescriber. The usual starting dose for most men is 100mg, taken when needed, around 15 to 30 minutes before sexual activity. Your doctor may adjust your dose to 50mg or 200mg depending on how well it works for you and whether you experience any side effects.

Swallow the tablet whole with water. It can be taken with or without food, but it may take slightly longer to work after a heavy meal. Spedra should not be taken more than once in a 24-hour period.

It is important to remember that Spedra only works if you are sexually stimulated. It does not increase sexual desire and will not cause an erection without arousal. Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol when using Spedra, as this can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or low blood pressure.

Active Ingredients

Each Avanafil (Spedra) tablet contains the active ingredient avanafil in one of three strengths: 50mg, 100mg, or 200mg. This is the component that works to treat erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.

Inactive ingredients

In addition to the active ingredient, Spedra also contains inactive ingredients (excipients) that help form the tablet and ensure it works properly. These include:

• Lactose monohydrate
• Croscarmellose sodium
• Hydroxypropyl cellulose
• Magnesium stearate
• Microcrystalline cellulose
• Hypromellose
• Titanium dioxide (E171)
• Triacetin
• Iron oxide yellow (E172) – used in some tablet strengths

These additional ingredients do not treat erectile dysfunction but are important for the stability, absorption, and appearance of the medicine.

Always check the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the full ingredient list — especially if you have allergies or sensitivities. 

Like all medicines, Avanafil (Spedra) can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most side effects are mild and temporary.

The most common side effects include:

• Back pain
• Nasal congestion or a blocked nose
• Flushing (warmth or redness of the skin)
• Headache
• Dizziness
  
  

Less common side effects may include:

• Indigestion
• Feeling sleepy or tired
• Blurred vision or changes in vision
• Increased heart rate or palpitations
  
  

Rare but serious side effects:

• A sudden decrease or loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Sudden hearing decrease or loss
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• An erection lasting longer than 4 hours (priapism) – this is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment
  
  

If you experience any severe or concerning symptoms while taking Spedra, stop using it and seek medical help straight away.