Avanafil (Stendra): How It Differs From Sildenafil and Tadalafil
Reviewed by the Kamagra AUS Pharmacy Team on 11 November 2025 · Next review June 2027
Summary
Avanafil is the active ingredient behind the originally branded medicine Stendra — sold here as Avana. Here's how this newer PDE5 inhibitor compares with sildenafil (Kamagra) and tadalafil, and who tends to consider it.
On this page
Avanafil is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor — the same drug class as sildenafil and tadalafil — and it's the active ingredient in the originally branded medicine Stendra, sold in Australia under generic labels including Avana. It works the same broad way as every other PDE5 inhibitor: by blocking the PDE5 enzyme, it helps the blood vessels in the penis relax so blood flow improves during sexual stimulation, provided arousal is actually present.
What makes avanafil different
Avanafil is chemically distinct from sildenafil and tadalafil, and one property it's often discussed for is a faster onset in some studies compared with older PDE5 tablets — meaning some men may notice an effect sooner after taking it than they would with sildenafil. That doesn't make it "stronger": all three molecules work through the same mechanism, and individual response varies from person to person regardless of which one is used.
Avanafil vs sildenafil (Kamagra, Viagra)
Sildenafil — the active ingredient in Kamagra and originally branded Viagra — has decades of real-world use behind it and a well-documented side-effect profile. Avanafil is newer to the market and works the same way, but with a different chemical structure. Neither is a "better" default; the honest answer for most men is that either can work well, and food, alcohol and individual physiology affect the outcome regardless of molecule.
Avanafil vs tadalafil (Cialis)
Tadalafil is known for its long duration of action — up to around 36 hours — which suits some men better than a same-night tablet. Avanafil doesn't share that long window; it behaves more like sildenafil in that sense, intended for use closer to the time of sexual activity rather than as a standing daily option.
Who tends to consider avanafil
Men who've tried sildenafil or tadalafil and want to compare a different molecule, or who are specifically interested in a potentially faster-acting option, are the ones who typically look into avanafil. It's supplied here as Avana 50mg and Avana 100mg, alongside a 200mg strength for those who've discussed higher dosing with a doctor.
The safety basics don't change
Whichever PDE5 inhibitor you're considering, the same rules apply: one dose per 24 hours, never combined with nitrate medicines or amyl nitrite ("poppers"), and a doctor's check first if you have heart, liver or kidney conditions or take other regular medicines. Read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine before first use.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Speak with a doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medicine, particularly if you take other prescription medicines or have an existing health condition.
Frequently asked questions
Is avanafil stronger than sildenafil or tadalafil?+
No — all three are PDE5 inhibitors that work the same broad way, and none is inherently stronger. What differs is chemical structure and, for some men, how quickly an effect is noticed. Individual response varies regardless of which molecule is used.
Why is avanafil sometimes described as faster-acting?+
Avanafil has been studied for a comparatively fast onset in some research settings, meaning some men may notice an effect sooner than with older PDE5 tablets. This varies between individuals and isn't a guarantee for any one person.
Can I switch between avanafil and sildenafil or tadalafil?+
Many men do try more than one PDE5 inhibitor to see what suits them, but any change is worth discussing with a doctor or pharmacist first, especially if you take other medicines or have an underlying health condition.
Does avanafil have the same nitrate warning as other ED medicines?+
Yes. Every PDE5 inhibitor, avanafil included, must never be combined with nitrate medicines or amyl nitrite ('poppers'), as the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Kamagra AUS Health Editorial Team
Plain-English health writing from our in-house editorial team — sourced to the TGA, healthdirect and each medicine's product information, and focused on how Australians actually access and use medicines safely.
How our content is written & reviewedSources for the medical information in this guide
- TGA — Avanafil product information — Therapeutic Goods Administration — search the TGA's Product Information / ARTG for avanafil-based products.
- PDE5 Inhibitors — StatPearls, NCBI Bookshelf — Peer-reviewed clinical pharmacology of the whole drug class.
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