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Written By
P. Thirumal Reddy
B. Pharm

Reviewed By
Dr. Tejashwin Adiga
MBBS
Last updated : 31 Mar 2026 | 09:30 AM (IST)

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Quick Summary
AVANAFIL
Last updated on 31 Mar 2026 | 09:30 AM (IST)
AVANAFIL
Background and Date of approval AVANAFIL
Avanafil is a class of impotence agents that belongs to the category of medicines known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on April 27, 2012 for treating erectile dysfunction.
Uses of AVANAFIL
Avanafil has been developed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, which refers to the inability to maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance.
How is AVANAFIL administered?
It is an orally available prescription drug. Your doctor will decide the duration and dose of the drug based on the disease condition and other factors. Always take an Avanafil Tablet 30 minutes before sexual activity. Do not open, break, chew, or crush the tablet. Swallow the whole tablet with water.
Side Effects of AVANAFIL
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Avanafil are flushing (sense of warmth in the ears, neck, and face), headache, back pain, nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passages) and nasal congestion (stuffy nose). Some serious side effects also include priapism, loss of vision, loss of hearing and blurred vision.
Warnings
This medicine should not be consumed if you have any known allergy to the drug or its components. This drug is only intended for adult men, and children or women should not use it. Avanafil, like other PDE5 inhibitors, has been associated with priapism. If you feel an erection lasting longer than four hours, seek immediate medical emergency. Untreated priapism can damage the penis and cause permanent erectile dysfunction. Before taking this tablet, inform your physician if you have any serious bleeding disorders or are currently being treated for an ulcer. This drug may increase the chance of bleeding disorder and peptic ulcer (stomach or duodenum).
Precautions
This medicine can cause a sudden decrease in blood pressure. Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disorders, low blood pressure, chest pain, or other cardiovascular conditions. In rare cases, sudden vision or hearing loss has been reported using Avanafil. If you experience sudden vision or hearing changes, discontinue the drug immediately. Consumption of grapefruit juice or alcohol while taking this tablet may increase the risk of side effects. It is advisable to limit or avoid the use of alcohol and grapefruit juice while using this medication.
Word of Advice
Avanafil alone does not cause spontaneous erections. Sexual stimulation is required for an erection. Engage in the usual sexual foreplay and stimulation as desired. This drug is taken on an as-needed basis before sexual activity. It is not intended for daily use. Do not exceed the recommended dosage frequency or take more than one dose within a day, as it can increase the chance of serious side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.
Can Avanafil be prescribed for women?
No, Avanafil is not approved for use in women. It is specifically used to treat male sexual problems (erectile dysfunction).
Q2.
Are there any side effects associated with Avanafil?
Avanafil can have side effects. Common side effects may include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, back pain, and dizziness. If you experience any severe side effects, it's important to consult your healthcare provider.
Q3.
Is it safe to consume alcohol or smoke during Avanafil treatment?
Avoid smoking cigarettes and alcohol consumption while on treatment with Avanafil as it increases your risk of side effects.
Q4.
What is the recommended dosage of Avanafil?
The recommended starting dose of Avanafil is usually 50 or 100 milligrams (mg), taken as needed. However, your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your response and tolerability. The maximum dose is 200 mg daily, and it is necessary not to exceed this limit.
Q5.
How long it takes for Avanafil to work?
Avanafil starts working within 30 minutes of its administration, and the effect usually lasts 2 to 4 hours.
References
- Menarini international operations luxembourg s.a, Patient information leaflet Avanafil Tablets (EMC). [Revised on Jan 2023], Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5331.pdf (Accessed 08 Jun 2023).
- Avanafil - food and drug administration (FDA). [Revised on Aug 2018], Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/202276s018lbl.pdf (Accessed 08 Jun 2023).
- Menarini international operations luxembourg s.a European Medicines Agency (EMA),. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/spedra-epar-product-information_en.pdf [Accessed 08 Jun 2023]
- Bertram.G.Katzung, Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, Drugs used in the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction, 14th edition, 2017, 200.
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.






