Avana (avanafil) is a prescription medication specifically formulated to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. As a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, it works by increasing blood flow to the penis, facilitating the achievement and maintenance of an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Clinical studies demonstrate its rapid onset of action, often within 15 minutes, and its efficacy is contingent upon sexual stimulation. Avana is not an aphrodisiac and does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. It represents a targeted therapeutic option within a class of well-established medications, offering a balance of potency and a favorable side effect profile for appropriately selected patients.

Features

• Active pharmaceutical ingredient: Avanafil
• Available in tablet strengths: 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg
• Rapid onset of action, typically within 15-30 minutes
• Duration of effect can last up to 6 hours
• Selective PDE5 inhibitor with lower affinity for other phosphodiesterases
• Administered orally as needed, prior to anticipated sexual activity

Benefits

• Enables reliable achievement and maintenance of erections with sexual stimulation.
• Offers a rapid onset of action, allowing for greater spontaneity in sexual activity.
• Provides a sustained window of opportunity for sexual intercourse.
• Features a selective mechanism of action, which may contribute to a potentially reduced incidence of certain side effects like visual disturbances compared to some other PDE5 inhibitors.
• Supports the restoration of sexual function, which can improve self-esteem, intimate relationships, and overall quality of life.
• Serves as an effective non-surgical, pharmacological intervention for erectile dysfunction.

Common use

Avana is indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, the recurrent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It is used by adult men and is not indicated for use by women, children, or adolescents. Its use is predicated on the presence of sexual stimulation; it will not cause an erection spontaneously.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dose of Avana is 100 mg taken orally approximately 15-30 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. The dosage may be adjusted based on efficacy and tolerability to a maximum recommended dose of 200 mg or down to 50 mg. It should be taken no more than once per day. The tablet can be taken with or without food; however, taking it with a high-fat meal may delay the onset of action. The medication requires sexual stimulation to be effective.

Precautions

Prior to taking Avana, patients should undergo a thorough medical assessment to evaluate the underlying cause of their erectile dysfunction and their overall cardiovascular health. Sexual activity poses a potential cardiac risk; therefore, Avana should not be used in men for whom sexual activity is inadvisable due to their cardiovascular status. Patients should be advised to seek immediate medical attention if an erection lasts longer than 4 hours (priapism), as this can lead to permanent damage. Use with caution in patients with anatomical deformation of the penis, bleeding disorders, active peptic ulceration, or renal/hepatic impairment. Avana offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections.

Contraindications

Avana is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to avanafil or any component of the tablet. Its concurrent use with any form of organic nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate or dinitrate) or guanylate cyclase stimulators (e.g., riociguat) is strictly prohibited due to the risk of a severe, life-threatening drop in blood pressure. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment, end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis, or those with a history of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).

Possible side effect

Like all medications, Avana can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common side effects include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, nasopharyngitis, and back pain. Less frequently, dyspepsia (indigestion), dizziness, and visual disturbances (such as changes in color vision) may occur. As with other PDE5 inhibitors, there is a rare risk of sudden decrease or loss of hearing and vision (NAION). Priapism (a painful and prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours) is a serious side effect requiring immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent tissue damage.

Drug interaction

Avana can interact with numerous medications. The most critical interaction is with nitrates and nitric oxide donors, which can cause profound hypotension. Concomitant use with alpha-blockers (used for hypertension or prostate issues) may also lead to symptomatic hypotension and should be administered with caution and appropriate dosing separation. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir, clarithromycin) can significantly increase avanafil plasma levels; a dose adjustment to 50 mg is recommended. Grapefruit juice may interact and should be avoided. Concomitant use with other PDE5 inhibitors is not recommended.

Missed dose

Avana is not intended for chronic daily dosing and is taken on an as-needed basis. Therefore, the concept of a “missed dose” does not apply. It should only be taken when planned sexual activity is anticipated. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed opportunity.

Overdose

In cases of suspected overdose, standard supportive measures should be employed. Given its vasodilatory effects, the primary expected manifestation would be severe hypotension. Management should include placing the patient in a supine position with the head down and legs elevated. Active management of hypotension may require intravenous fluid administration. Hemodialysis is not expected to significantly accelerate clearance due to Avana’s high protein binding and extensive tissue distribution.

Storage

Store Avana tablets at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Keep the medication in its original blister pack or container to protect it from light and moisture. Always keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Do not use medicine beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The information provided is based on the typical properties of the drug and may not cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, or interactions.

Reviews

• “After trying another ED medication with unsatisfactory side effects, my urologist recommended Avana. The difference was noticeable. The onset is incredibly fast, and I experienced minimal side effects, just some minor flushing. It has significantly improved my confidence and my relationship.” – Mark T., 54
• “The 6-hour window is a game-changer for spontaneity. It removes the pressure of a strict timetable. I take the 100mg dose and it’s been consistently effective for me with no notable adverse effects.” – David L., 61
• “As a healthcare professional, I appreciate the selective action of avanafil. I prescribed it for a patient who reported visual disturbances with sildenafil. He has tolerated Avana much better and achieved the desired therapeutic effect without those particular issues.” – Dr. Evan R., General Practitioner
• “I was initially hesitant to seek treatment, but Avana has been discreet and reliable. I’ve had no problems with it and it does exactly what it’s supposed to do when taken as directed.” – James K., 48