If you want a quick answer: avanafil can start working in as little as 15 minutes for many men, and most notice effects within 30–45 minutes. But timing varies. Your body, dose, and what you eat all change how fast it kicks in.
Avanafil is a PDE5 inhibitor marketed as Stendra. Clinical trials and user reports show a fast onset compared with older drugs in the same class. In studies, some participants achieved sufficient response within 15 minutes, and a larger share responded by 30–45 minutes. Peak blood levels usually come around 30–45 minutes after a dose.
Expect the effect to last up to 6 hours, though sexual stimulation is still needed. Don’t expect a constant erection for that whole time—think of it as a window where getting an erection with stimulation is easier.
Food. A high-fat meal can slow absorption and push onset to an hour or more. For the fastest effect, take avanafil on an emptier stomach or at least avoid big, fatty meals beforehand.
Dose. Typical doses are 50–200 mg. Higher doses may act a bit faster for some men, but higher dose also raises side-effect risk. Start at the dose your doctor suggests.
Other drugs and health conditions. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (like ritonavir or ketoconazole) raise avanafil levels and change timing. Nitrates for chest pain must never be combined with avanafil. Heart disease, low blood pressure, or severe liver problems also affect safety and how the drug behaves.
Individual factors. Age, weight, metabolic rate, and erectile dysfunction cause impact response. Men with diabetes or nerve damage may need more time or repeated tries to see full effect.
Practical tips to speed onset
Take avanafil 15–30 minutes before sexual activity if you want a quick start. If you’ve eaten a heavy meal, give yourself more time—45–60 minutes or skip the heavy food. Limit alcohol because it can dull response and cause more side effects. Stay relaxed; anxiety can blunt results even if the drug is working.
Try different settings. If it didn’t work once, don’t assume it never will. Your first few tries may be less reliable. Follow your doctor’s dose advice and try on separate occasions under calmer conditions.
Warning signs and safety
If you get chest pain, dizziness, or a painful erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism), seek emergency care. Never mix avanafil with nitrates. Tell your doctor about all meds you take, especially antifungals, HIV protease inhibitors, and certain antibiotics.
Want more personalized guidance? Talk to your healthcare provider about the best dose and timing for your situation. Small changes in how and when you take avanafil often make a big difference in how quickly it works.