Avanafil Success Rate: How Effective Is It for ED?

Avanafil Success Rate: How Effective Is This ED Treatment?

Published: 6 November 2026

The avanafil success rate in clinical trials shows that approximately 50-60% of men with erectile dysfunction achieve successful intercourse when taking this medication, with some studies reporting even higher rates depending on the dose and severity of ED [11]. Avanafil, marketed as Spedra in the UK, is one of the newer PDE5 inhibitors licensed for erectile dysfunction and is known for its rapid onset of action—typically working within 15 to 30 minutes [6]. Understanding how effective avanafil is, and how it compares to other ED treatments, can help you make an informed decision about which option might be right for you.

What Does the Avanafil Success Rate Mean in Clinical Trials?

When researchers talk about the avanafil success rate, they typically measure how many men were able to achieve and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse after taking the medication [11]. In pivotal clinical trials, avanafil demonstrated significant improvements compared to placebo, with success rates varying by dose and the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction.

For example, in studies involving men with mild to moderate ED, avanafil 100mg and 200mg doses showed success rates of around 50-60% or higher, meaning that more than half of participants reported successful sexual activity [11]. These figures represent the percentage of attempts at intercourse that were successful, rather than a guarantee for every individual. Success rates can be influenced by factors such as the severity of ED, underlying health conditions (like diabetes or cardiovascular disease), psychological factors, and whether the medication is taken correctly.

It's important to remember that all PDE5 inhibitors, including avanafil, require sexual stimulation to work—they do not cause an automatic erection [6]. The medication helps by improving blood flow to the penis when you are sexually aroused, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection suitable for intercourse.

How Does Avanafil Compare to Other ED Medications?

Avanafil belongs to the same class of medicines as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra)—all are PDE5 inhibitors that work by relaxing blood vessels in the penis to improve blood flow [1][2]. While all four medications have similar overall success rates in clinical trials, avanafil is distinguished by its faster onset of action and potentially fewer side effects for some men.

Sildenafil, the first PDE5 inhibitor introduced, has been extensively studied and typically shows success rates of around 60-70% in clinical trials [9]. Tadalafil is known for its long duration of action—up to 36 hours—which offers more spontaneity, and it also demonstrates similar effectiveness [4]. Vardenafil has comparable efficacy to sildenafil, with success rates in the same range [5]. Avanafil's key advantage is speed: it can start working in as little as 15 minutes, compared to about an hour for sildenafil or 25-60 minutes for vardenafil [6][11].

The choice between these medications often comes down to personal preference, lifestyle, timing, and how your body responds. Some men find one medication works better for them than another, or prefer the convenience of a faster-acting option like avanafil. A UK prescriber will consider your medical history, current medications, and individual needs during an online consultation to recommend the most suitable treatment.

Why Avanafil May Be Preferred by Some Men

Avanafil's rapid onset means you can take it closer to the time of sexual activity, which many men find more convenient and spontaneous [11]. Additionally, because avanafil is more selective in its action on the PDE5 enzyme, some studies suggest it may cause fewer side effects such as headache, flushing, or visual disturbances compared to older PDE5 inhibitors, although individual experiences vary [6]. If you've tried other ED medications and experienced bothersome side effects, avanafil might be worth discussing with your prescriber.

What Factors Influence the Avanafil Success Rate for Individual Men?

While clinical trial data provides a useful benchmark, your personal avanafil success rate will depend on several factors. The underlying cause of your erectile dysfunction plays a significant role: men with ED caused by psychological factors (such as stress or anxiety) may respond differently to those with physical causes like diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease [10]. Avanafil and other PDE5 inhibitors tend to be most effective when ED has a physical cause, though they can also help when psychological factors are involved.

The dose you take matters too. Avanafil is available in 50mg, 100mg, and 200mg strengths [6]. Your prescriber will usually start you on a lower dose and adjust if needed, based on how well it works and whether you experience any side effects. Taking the medication correctly—on an empty stomach or after a light meal, and allowing enough time before sexual activity—also improves the likelihood of success.

Other factors include your overall health, other medications you're taking, lifestyle habits (such as smoking, heavy alcohol use, or lack of exercise), and whether you have realistic expectations. Avanafil does not increase sexual desire or cause spontaneous erections; sexual stimulation is still required [6]. If you have concerns about whether avanafil is working as expected, speak to your prescriber—they may adjust your dose or suggest a different treatment.

How Quickly Does Avanafil Work and How Long Does It Last?

One of the standout features of avanafil is its speed. Clinical studies show that avanafil can start working in as little as 15 to 30 minutes after taking it, making it the fastest-acting PDE5 inhibitor currently available in the UK [6][11]. This rapid onset allows for more spontaneity compared to sildenafil, which typically requires about an hour, or tadalafil, which needs at least 30 minutes.

The effects of avanafil last for approximately 4 to 6 hours, during which time you may find it easier to achieve and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated [6]. This duration is shorter than tadalafil (which can last up to 36 hours) but similar to sildenafil and vardenafil. The shorter window may suit men who prefer a medication that clears from the body more quickly, or who do not need the extended duration offered by tadalafil.

You should take avanafil about 15 to 30 minutes before you plan to have sex, and no more than once in a 24-hour period [6]. Taking it on an empty stomach or after a light meal can help it work more quickly; a heavy, high-fat meal may delay absorption. Remember, avanafil will only help you get an erection if you are sexually aroused—it does not work automatically.

Tips for Getting the Best Results with Avanafil

To maximise the avanafil success rate for you personally, take the tablet with water about 15-30 minutes before sexual activity, ideally on an empty stomach or after a light meal. Avoid heavy alcohol, as it can reduce the effectiveness of the medication and make it harder to achieve an erection [6]. Make sure you are in a relaxed, comfortable setting and allow time for foreplay and sexual stimulation. If the first dose doesn't work as well as you hoped, don't give up—your prescriber can adjust the dose or timing, and it sometimes takes a few attempts to find the right approach.

Is Avanafil Safe and What Are the Common Side Effects?

Avanafil is a licensed, safe, and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction when prescribed appropriately and used as directed [6][11]. Like all medicines, it can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials include headache, flushing (redness or warmth in the face or chest), nasal congestion, and back pain [6]. These are usually mild and temporary, resolving on their own within a few hours.

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. These include an erection lasting more than four hours (priapism), which can damage the penis if not treated promptly; sudden loss of vision or hearing; severe dizziness or fainting; and chest pain during or after sex [6]. If you experience any of these, stop taking avanafil and seek urgent medical help by calling 999 or going to A&E.

Avanafil must never be taken with nitrate medicines (such as GTN spray, isosorbide mononitrate, or isosorbide dinitrate), nicorandil, riociguat, or recreational drugs known as 'poppers' (amyl or alkyl nitrites), as the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure [6]. If you take alpha-blockers for prostate problems or high blood pressure (such as tamsulosin or doxazosin), you must tell your prescriber, as the combination requires careful management. Potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (including some HIV medicines like ritonavir, antifungals like ketoconazole, or antibiotics like clarithromycin) can increase avanafil levels in your blood; avanafil is usually avoided or contraindicated with these medicines [6]. During your online consultation, you will be asked about all your current medications to ensure avanafil is safe for you.

How to Access Avanafil (Spedra) Through Cured Pharmacy

Avanafil is available in the UK under the brand name Spedra and requires a prescription [6]. At Cured Pharmacy, you can request Spedra through a straightforward online consultation. You'll complete a short medical questionnaire covering your health history, current medications, and any conditions that might affect the safety of ED treatment. A UK-registered prescriber will review your answers and, if appropriate, issue a prescription. Your medication is then dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your door.

Spedra (avanafil) is priced at £20.95 at Cured Pharmacy, or £16.76 for your first order when you use the code Ednew at checkout. We also offer a range of other ED treatments, including sildenafil (generic Viagra) from £0.45, tadalafil (generic Cialis) from £7.95, and vardenafil (generic Levitra) at £16.95, all with first-order discounts. If you're unsure which medication is right for you, our prescribers can provide guidance based on your individual circumstances.

If you're experiencing erectile dysfunction for the first time, or if your symptoms have changed, we encourage you to see your GP as well. ED can sometimes be an early warning sign of underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure [1][2]. Treating these conditions can improve your overall health and may also help with ED. Our service is designed to complement, not replace, the care you receive from your GP.

Why Choose Cured Pharmacy for Your ED Treatment?

Cured Pharmacy is a fully registered online pharmacy (GPhC 9012511) with experienced UK pharmacists and prescribers. We offer a discreet, convenient service with clear pricing, no hidden fees, and fast delivery. Every prescription is reviewed by a qualified UK prescriber to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you. Our team is available to answer any questions you have about your treatment, and we are committed to providing genuinely helpful, evidence-based advice to support your health and wellbeing.

Scientific References

1. NHS. (n.d.). Erectile dysfunction (impotence). NHS website. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/erection-problems-erectile-dysfunction/ [accessed 6 November 2026]
2. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (n.d.). Erectile dysfunction. Clinical Knowledge Summaries. https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/erectile-dysfunction/ [accessed 6 November 2026]
3. Joint Formulary Committee. (n.d.). Tadalafil. British National Formulary. NICE. https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/tadalafil/ [accessed 6 November 2026]
4. Joint Formulary Committee. (n.d.). Vardenafil. British National Formulary. NICE. https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/vardenafil/ [accessed 6 November 2026]
5. Joint Formulary Committee. (n.d.). Avanafil. British National Formulary. NICE. https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/avanafil/ [accessed 6 November 2026]
6. Goldstein, I., Lue, T. F., Padma-Nathan, H., Rosen, R. C., Steers, W. D., & Wicker, P. A. (1998). Oral sildenafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. New England Journal of Medicine, 338(20), 1397–1404. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9580646/ [accessed 6 November 2026]
7. Feldman, H. A., Goldstein, I., Hatzichristou, D. G., Krane, R. J., & McKinlay, J. B. (1994). Impotence and its medical and psychosocial correlates: Results of the Massachusetts Male Aging Study. Journal of Urology, 151(1), 54–61. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8254833/ [accessed 6 November 2026]
8. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2014). Erectile dysfunction: avanafil (ESNM45). https://www.nice.org.uk/advice/esnm45 [accessed 6 November 2026]

Information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Prescription treatments require clinical assessment by a UK-registered prescriber. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication.