spedra

Spedra contains the active ingredient avanafil. It's from the same family of drugs as Viagra, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, that dilate the blood vessels leading to the penis resulting in a firmer, longer lasting erection when you become sexually aroused.

Spedra is a recently introduced treatment for erectile dysfunction and, because it's absorbed by the body more quickly than other treatments, it has a very quick onset of action. It can have the desired effect just 15 to 30 mins after taking it, making it one of the fastest acting ED treatments available.

Take one tablet 15-30 mins before sex. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Spedra can be taken with or without food: if taken with food it may take longer to work.

You must be sexually aroused for Spedra to work and it's effects will last for up to 6 hours.

There are 3 different strengths of Spedra; 50mg (Low dose), 100mg (Recommended starting dose) and 200mg(High dose).

The recommended starting dose of Spedra is 100mg. If you find this dose effective but are experiencing some unwanted side-effects then you can reduce the dose to 50mg. On the other hand, if you find you require a stronger effect then you can try the 200mg dose. If after trying at least 8 times, as with all erectile dysfunction treatments, you do not achieve the desired effect then you should visit your GP for alternative treatments.

You should not take Spedra more than once a day.

Common side-effects

• Facial flushing
• Headaches
• Nasal congestion
• Blurred vision
• Nausea and sickness
• Back pain
• Indigestion

A full list of the side-effects can be found in the patient information leaflet.

Grapefruit juice can increase the effects and side-effects of Spedra and therefore should not be taken within 24 hours of taking it.

Alcohol should not be taken at the same time as Spedra as it may lower your blood pressure, making you feel dizzy and/or faint.

Nitrates interact very adversely with all phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors like Spedra, Viagra, Cialis, Levitra and sildenafil. They can cause a fatal lowering of blood pressure and should never be used together.

Nitrates include medications like GTN spray, isosorbide mononitrate and nicorandil for angina. Also, the recreational drugs called "poppers" should be avoided.

If you are taking alpha blockers, like doxazocin, prazocin or tamsulosin, then you should leave at least 6 hours between taking your alpha blocker and taking Spedra. 

Spedra is contra-indicated for use in men with high or low blood pressure as well as those with heart conditions.

Although 80% of erectile dysfunction is due to physical causes some men may suffer due to psychological issues such as stress, depression and anxiety. For these men, counselling may be a very effective therapy. Talking with a mental health professional may help address these issues which can all contribute to erectile dysfunction. Counselling can be accessed through some sexual health clinics or by contacting your GP. 

Click here to download the patient information leaflet for Spedra