Vardenafil (Levitra®) is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). By enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, vardenafil increases blood flow to the penis, helping achieve and maintain an erection during sexual activity. Compared to other PDE5 inhibitors such as sildenafil (Viagra®) and tadalafil (Cialis®), vardenafil has a shorter half-life, making it a suitable choice for as-needed use.
It is typically taken about one hour before sexual activity, with effectiveness lasting several hours. Vardenafil can be taken with or without food, though high-fat meals may delay its onset of action.
Usage Instructions:
Usual dose is 10 mg to 20 mg taken once, about one hour before sexual activity
It's not recommended to exceed 20 mg in a 24-hour period
Can be taken with or without food, but avoid large, high-fat meals that may slow absorption
Effectiveness requires sexual stimulation to work properly
Warnings & Precautions:
Not safe for use with nitrates or nitric oxide donors due to risk of severe low blood pressure
May cause dizziness, flushing, headache, or nasal congestion
Caution when combined with alcohol, as it can increase dizziness and lower blood pressure
Patients with cardiovascular disease should consult a healthcare provider before use
Vardenafil potential Side Effects: redness or flushing, low blood pressure, hearing loss, upset stomach, diarrhea, nasal congestion, back pain, and rarely an erection lasting longer than 4 hours. Vision changes may also occur such as light sensitivity and trouble distinguishing blue and green colors.
This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only a healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. TelyRx does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a limited summary of general information about the medicine’s uses from the patient education materials and is not intended to be comprehensive. This limited summary does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not replace information you may receive from your healthcare provider. For a more detailed summary of information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine, please review the entire patient education information you receive with the medication.