Viagra vs Spedra: UK Comparison Guide | Cured Pharmacy

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Viagra vs Spedra: Comparing ED Treatments

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Viagra vs Spedra: Comparing ED Treatments

Published on: June 03, 2026

When evaluating a viagra vs spedra uk comparison, understanding the key differences in onset time, duration, and side effect profiles helps you make an informed choice. Both medications are effective PDE5 inhibitors licensed by the MHRA for erectile dysfunction, but they differ significantly in how quickly they work and how long they last. At Cured Pharmacy, our UK-registered clinical team can assess which treatment suits your individual needs through a free online consultation.

How Viagra and Spedra Work for Erectile Dysfunction

Both Viagra (sildenafil) and Spedra (avanafil) belong to the PDE5 inhibitor class of medications, which work by relaxing blood vessels in the penis to facilitate erections during sexual stimulation [1]. They do not cause automatic erections — sexual arousal is still required for the medication to be effective.

The key difference lies in their molecular structure and pharmacokinetics. Sildenafil has been available since 1998 and remains the most widely prescribed ED treatment globally, with extensive real-world data supporting its efficacy [1]. Avanafil, the active ingredient in Spedra, was developed more recently and designed specifically for faster absorption and a more selective action on PDE5 enzymes [2].

Clinical trials demonstrate that both medications significantly improve erectile function scores compared to placebo, with success rates typically ranging from 60% to 80% depending on the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction [1][2]. Your response may vary based on factors including age, cardiovascular health, diabetes status, and psychological factors.

Onset Time: Which Works Faster?

Spedra holds a distinct advantage in onset time, working in as little as 15 minutes for some patients — making it the fastest-acting oral ED treatment currently available in the UK [2]. This rapid onset allows for greater spontaneity, as you don't need to plan sexual activity as far in advance.

Viagra typically requires 30 to 60 minutes before reaching peak effectiveness, though some men report effects within 20 to 30 minutes [1]. For optimal results, Viagra should be taken on an empty stomach, as high-fat meals can delay absorption by up to an hour.

In head-to-head studies, avanafil demonstrated statistically significant improvements in time to erection compared to sildenafil, with median times of 16.9 minutes versus 27.1 minutes respectively [3]. This faster action makes Spedra particularly suitable for men who value spontaneity or find the planning aspect of Viagra inconvenient.

Food and Alcohol Interactions

Spedra is less affected by food intake than Viagra, meaning you can take it with or without meals without significantly impacting its effectiveness [2]. Viagra's absorption is notably slowed by fatty foods, which is an important consideration if you're planning to take it around mealtimes.

Both medications can be taken with moderate alcohol consumption, though excessive drinking may reduce their effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or low blood pressure. The MHRA recommends limiting alcohol to two units or fewer when using PDE5 inhibitors.

Duration of Action: How Long Do They Last?

Viagra remains active in your system for approximately four to six hours, with peak plasma concentrations occurring around 60 minutes after administration [1]. This window allows for multiple attempts at intercourse within the same timeframe, though the medication's effectiveness gradually diminishes over this period.

Spedra has a slightly shorter duration of action, typically lasting four to five hours [2]. While this represents a modest reduction compared to Viagra, many patients find this duration more than adequate for their needs, particularly given the faster onset time.

Neither medication provides continuous erections throughout their active period. Instead, they create a window of opportunity during which achieving and maintaining erections becomes easier when sexually aroused. Once sexual activity concludes, the erection naturally subsides.

Feature Viagra (Sildenafil) Spedra (Avanafil)
Onset Time 30–60 minutes 15–30 minutes
Duration 4–6 hours 4–5 hours
Food Interaction Delayed by fatty meals Minimal food interaction
Starting Dose 50mg 100mg
Visual Side Effects Occasional (PDE6 activity) Rare (higher selectivity)
Generic Available Yes (Sildenafil from £0.45) Limited generic availability

Side Effects and Tolerability Profile

Both medications share a similar side effect profile, with the most common adverse reactions including headache, facial flushing, nasal congestion, and indigestion [1][2]. These effects are generally mild to moderate and resolve without intervention as the medication clears your system.

Clinical trial data suggests that Spedra may produce fewer visual disturbances compared to Viagra [3]. Sildenafil's molecular structure gives it some affinity for PDE6 enzymes in the retina, which can occasionally cause temporary blue-tinged vision or increased light sensitivity — effects rarely reported with avanafil.

Serious side effects are rare with both medications but can include sudden vision loss, sudden hearing loss, or priapism (an erection lasting more than four hours). Any of these symptoms requires immediate medical attention. Men with cardiovascular conditions, particularly those taking nitrate medications, should not use PDE5 inhibitors due to the risk of dangerous blood pressure drops [1][2].

Who Should Avoid These Medications

Both Viagra and Spedra are contraindicated in patients taking nitrates for angina, alpha-blockers for prostate conditions (unless carefully managed), or those with severe cardiovascular disease. Your UK prescriber will review your full medical history and current medications during your consultation to ensure safe prescribing.

Men with anatomical penile abnormalities, bleeding disorders, active peptic ulcers, or retinitis pigmentosa should discuss alternative treatments with their healthcare provider. Age alone is not a contraindication — both medications can be safely prescribed to older adults subject to cardiovascular assessment.

Dosing Options and Flexibility

Viagra is available in three strengths: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg, with 50mg being the standard starting dose for most men [1]. Your prescriber may adjust this based on efficacy and tolerability. The maximum recommended frequency is once per 24-hour period.

Spedra comes in 50mg, 100mg, and 200mg tablets, with 100mg typically prescribed as the initial dose [2]. Like Viagra, it should not be taken more than once daily. The higher maximum dose of Spedra (200mg versus Viagra's 100mg) provides additional flexibility for dose optimisation in patients who don't achieve adequate results at lower strengths.

Some men find they can use a lower dose than initially prescribed once they understand how the medication affects them, which can reduce both cost and the likelihood of side effects. Always consult your prescriber before adjusting your dose — never split or combine tablets without professional guidance.

Viagra vs Spedra UK Comparison: Making Your Choice

Choosing between Viagra and Spedra depends on your individual priorities and lifestyle. If spontaneity is your primary concern and you want the fastest-acting option available, Spedra's 15-minute onset time offers a clear advantage. Men who experience visual side effects with Viagra may also find Spedra better tolerated due to its greater PDE5 selectivity [3].

Conversely, Viagra's longer track record and extensive real-world use data provide reassurance for many patients. It's also available as generic sildenafil from £0.45 at Cured Pharmacy, making it a more cost-effective option for men who don't require the rapid onset that Spedra provides. The 30 to 60-minute onset time is perfectly acceptable for most situations with minimal advance planning.

At Cured Pharmacy, our UK-registered prescribers assess your medical history, current medications, and personal preferences to recommend the most suitable treatment. You can switch between medications if your initial choice doesn't meet your expectations — erectile dysfunction treatment is not one-size-fits-all, and finding the right option may require some trial and adjustment.

Starting Your Treatment at Cured Pharmacy

All ED treatments require a clinical assessment by a UK prescriber before dispensing. Our online consultation takes under three minutes and covers your medical history, current medications, and cardiovascular health. Once approved, your medication is dispatched in 100% discreet packaging with next-day delivery options available.

We stock both branded and generic options, with transparent upfront pricing displayed before you complete your consultation. Our superintendent pharmacist, Tarun Kumar (GPhC 2233073), and clinical team are available to answer questions about your treatment at (+44) 116 4646009.

Scientific References

  1. 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://doi.org/10.1056/NEJM199805143382001 [accessed 13 August 2026]
  2. Goldstein, I., McCullough, A. R., Jones, L. A., Hellstrom, W. J., Bowden, C. H., Didonato, K., & Kinchen, K. (2012). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of the safety and efficacy of avanafil in subjects with erectile dysfunction. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 9(4), 1122–1133. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02629.x [accessed 13 August 2026]
  3. Jung, J., Choi, S., Cho, S. Y., Chung, H. S., Shim, B. S., & Kim, H. J. (2019). Comparison of the efficacy and safety of avanafil and sildenafil in patients with erectile dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis. World Journal of Men's Health, 37(2), 183–192. https://doi.org/10.5534/wjmh.180045 [accessed 13 August 2026]
  4. McMahon, C. G., Althof, S. E., Kaufman, J. M., Buvat, J., Levine, S. B., Aquilina, J. W., Tesfaye, F., Rothman, M., Rivas, D. A., & Porst, H. (2011). Efficacy and safety of dapoxetine for the treatment of premature ejaculation: Integrated analysis of results from five phase 3 trials. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 8(2), 524–539. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.02097.x [accessed 13 August 2026]
  5. NHS. (2026). Erectile dysfunction (impotence). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/erection-problems-erectile-dysfunction/ Accessed 13 August 2026.

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

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Faq

Which is stronger, Viagra or Spedra?
Both medications are equally effective at improving erectile function in clinical trials, with success rates of 60–80%. Spedra works faster, but neither is inherently 'stronger' — the right choice depends on your individual response and priorities.
Can I take Viagra and Spedra together?
No. You should never combine PDE5 inhibitors, as this significantly increases the risk of serious side effects including dangerous drops in blood pressure. Always use one medication at a time as prescribed.
Is Spedra better than Viagra for premature ejaculation?
Neither Viagra nor Spedra is licensed for premature ejaculation treatment in the UK. Some studies suggest PDE5 inhibitors may modestly delay ejaculation, but dedicated treatments like Priligy (dapoxetine) are more appropriate for this condition.
How long does Spedra take to work compared to Viagra?
Spedra can work in as little as 15 minutes for some patients, while Viagra typically requires 30 to 60 minutes. This faster onset makes Spedra particularly suitable when spontaneity is important.
Does Spedra cause fewer side effects than Viagra?
Both medications have similar side effect profiles (headache, flushing, nasal congestion), but Spedra causes fewer visual disturbances due to its greater selectivity for PDE5 enzymes. Individual tolerability varies between patients.
Can I drink alcohol with Viagra or Spedra?
Moderate alcohol consumption (up to two units) is generally safe with both medications, though excessive drinking may reduce effectiveness and increase side effects like dizziness. The MHRA recommends limiting alcohol when using PDE5 inhibitors.
Is generic sildenafil as good as branded Viagra?
Yes. Generic sildenafil contains the same active ingredient at the same strength as branded Viagra and is bioequivalent, meaning it works identically in your body. Generic options from £0.45 at Cured Pharmacy provide excellent value.
Do I need a prescription for Viagra or Spedra in the UK?
Yes. Both medications are prescription-only in the UK and require clinical assessment by a UK-registered prescriber. At Cured Pharmacy, our free online consultation takes under three minutes and determines your suitability for treatment.
How much does Viagra vs Spedra cost at Cured Pharmacy?
Viagra typically costs from £4.50 per tablet, while Spedra starts from around £6 per tablet at Cured Pharmacy. Prices vary depending on dosage strength and pack size, with bulk orders offering better value per tablet.
Which works faster: Viagra or Spedra?
Spedra is generally faster-acting, working in as little as 15-30 minutes, while Viagra typically takes 30-60 minutes to take effect. This makes Spedra a popular choice for men seeking more spontaneity, though both medications are highly effective when taken as directed.
Can I get Viagra or Spedra without seeing a doctor in person?
Yes, Cured Pharmacy offers a free online consultation service where our UK-registered pharmacists assess your suitability for Viagra or Spedra. If approved, your prescription is issued remotely and your medication dispatched discreetly without needing a face-to-face appointment.
Is Spedra more effective than Viagra for erectile dysfunction?
Both Viagra and Spedra are highly effective ED treatments with similar success rates, though individual responses vary. Spedra has a faster onset and may cause fewer visual side effects, while Viagra has the longest track record of proven efficacy since 1998.
How quickly can I get Viagra or Spedra delivered in the UK?
Cured Pharmacy offers next-day delivery across the UK when you order before our cut-off time. All orders are dispatched in discreet, unmarked packaging to protect your privacy, with tracking available for your peace of mind.
Tarun Kumar, Prescribing Pharmacist

Medically reviewed by

Tarun Kumar, Prescribing Pharmacist (GPhC 2233073)

Reviewed on: June 03, 2026

Last reviewed: 13 August 2026

Last updated on 13 August 2026.

Review History

Our experts continually monitor new findings in health and medicine, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Why this page was updated on 13 August 2026

Content checked and updated as part of our periodic review, to ensure accuracy and currentness.

Current version (13 August 2026)

Edited by: The Editorial Team

Medically reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar, GPhC No. 2233073, Prescribing Pharmacist


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