Stendra is prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition in which you are unable to achieve and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. In some cases, men who experience ED are unable to get an erection at all, while others are unable to get or maintain an erection firm enough for sex. Erectile dysfunction is one of the most common forms of male sexual dysfunction. In fact, ED affects nearly 30 million men in the United States.

Although many people will experience difficulties with their erections from time to time, if it is a frequent and ongoing issue, you should seek help from a medical professional. ED may also be a sign of an underlying health problem or a risk factor for heart disease.

Aside from age, common causes of ED include:

• Poor vascular health (heart disease, high blood pressure, lack of blood flow)
  
• Substance abuse
  
• Diabetes
  
• Obesity
  
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  
• Psychological problems (such as depression or anxiety)
  
• Peyronie's disease (scar tissue inside the penis)
  
• Spinal cord injuries
  
• Medication usage
  
• Low testosterone
  
• Enlarged prostate
  
• Aging
  
  

It is important to note that Stendra does not increase sex drive, nor is it a cure for the underlying causes of ED. It increases blood flow to the penis, which encourages an erection during sexual stimulation. It is also important to note that stimulation is required for Stendra to work. An erection cannot be attained, even after Stendra use, if the penis is not stimulated. Stendra will not cause an erection on its own.

Stendra will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or prevent pregnancy.

Stendra belongs to a classification of medications known as phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These medications work by preventing the breakdown of a naturally occurring biochemical in the body known as cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Increased levels of cGMP improve the relaxation of blood vessels, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection.

Even though Stendra increases blood flow to the penis, it cannot cause an erection by itself. Stimulation is required for the effects of Stendra to work.

Stendra usage has been shown to cause some mild side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider if these do not go away within a few days. If you begin to experience more serious effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Common side effects reported from Stendra use include:

• Headache
  
• Feeling of warmth (flushing)
  
• Muscle aches
  
• Back pain
  
• Low back pain
  
• Flushing
  
  

More serious side effects include:

• An erection that lasts more than 4 hours
  
• Loss of vision
  
• Blurred vision
  
• Dangerously low blood pressure
  
• Dizziness
  
• Ringing or pounding in the ears
  
• Hearing loss
  
• Rash
  
• Itching
  
• Swelling
  
• Fainting
  
  

If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately. These are symptoms of a serious adverse reaction to this medication and require treatment right away.

As with all prescription medication, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you are currently managing. Tell them about any and all medication, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with Stendra. Stendra can interact with substances in the body, causing potentially serious adverse reactions. Do not take Stendra if you are currently taking any nitrate medication, such as isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate, and nitroglycerin. Specifically, let your doctor know if you are currently taking any alpha-blockers, HIV protease inhibitors, or antifungal medication. In addition, let them know if you are currently taking any other form of erectile dysfunction medication. You should include information about any herbal products you are currently using, especially St. John’s wort.

Do not drink grapefruit juice while taking Stendra.

Talk to your healthcare provider about safe drinking practices during treatment with Stendra. Stendra can interact with alcohol and cause potentially serious adverse reactions like those listed above.

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is taken as needed, about 15 minutes before sexual activity, with a max of one dose per day. Keep all medication bottles out of reach of small children and at room temperature. Avoid exposing the medication to excess heat or moisture. Seek medical attention right away if you begin to notice chest pain, trouble breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction (hives, rash, swelling) after taking the medicine.

Do not exceed the dosage prescribed or discontinue the use of Stendra without consulting your healthcare provider first.

Stendra is currently only available via prescription. This means that a licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this medication.

If you are looking for a prescription, doctors on Sesame can write a prescription–or refill an existing one–during a virtual or in-person visit. Note that not all drugs can be prescribed via an online video appointment. In some cases, an in-person doctor visit is required for a prescription.

Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy or order the medication to be delivered to your door. Book an appointment with a provider on Sesame today to discuss whether or not Stendra is right for you. Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment.

Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription for Stendra to be picked up near you–often within the same day. Don’t wait to get your prescription filled. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.