For men suffering from erectile dysfunction, the prescription choices used to be Viagra, Levitra or Cialis. Today, there is now a second-generation PDE5 inhibitor on the market — Avanafil.

How Avanafil Works?
Like Viagra, Levitra and Cialis, Avanafil is a PDE5 inhibitor. With the PDE5 enzyme blocked, the body releases nitric oxide. This relaxes the smooth muscle of the penis’s corpus cavernosum and the penile arteries. Blood flow is then increased in the penis, allowing for an erection when sexual stimulation is present. This last part is very important – Avanafil does NOT cause an erection. You must have some sort of sexual stimulation, for an erection to occur.

How do I take it?
Avanafil 100 mg ( Avagra) is supplied as a tablet designed for oral administration. The recommended initial dose of Avanafil is 100 mg taken approximately 30 minutes before sexual activity with or without food. The dose may be increased to 200 mg or decreased to 50 mg. Use the lowest dose that provides benefit on an as needed basis no more than once per day.

Avanafil Side Effects
There are several potential side effects with Avanafil. Some are minor inconveniences, others can be life-threatening. Be sure to seek medical attention if you experience any side effects. The most common side effects include:
– headache
– flushing
– nasal congestion
– nasopharyngitis
– back pain

Additional Information
As with other PDE5 inhibitors, Avanafil should not be used by men who also take nitrates commonly used to treat chest pain, because the combination can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure.