Indications
Levitra (active ingredient: vardenafil) is a prescription medication indicated for:
- Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Levitra is indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in adult men, a condition characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance.
Levitra belongs to the drug class known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which work by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, thereby facilitating the achievement and maintenance of an erection.
Uses and Dosage
Levitra is available in tablet form and should be taken orally, in accordance with the directions provided by your doctor. Typically, it should be taken as needed, approximately 1 hour prior to sexual activity, with or without food. Do not take more than one dose per day and doses should be taken a minimum of 24 hours apart. The prescribed dosage may vary based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking.
The starting dose for most people is 10 milligrams once per day taken 60 minutes before sexual activity, but doses can range from 5mg to 20mg. Patients should follow the dosage instructions provided by their doctor or pharmacist and should not exceed the recommended dosage, which should not exceed more than once daily.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Levitra (Vardenafil):
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Stuffy nose
- Warmth or redness around the face and neck
Serious Side Effects of Levitra (Vardenafil):
- Painful and prolonged erection
- Sudden vision or hearing loss
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fainting
- Seizures
Form and Strength
Levitra (Vardenafil) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Levitra: Tablet
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
Vardenafil: Tablet
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
Caution
- Avoid taking Vardenafil if they have a history of heart attack, stroke, chest pain, abnormal blood pressure, or heart failure in the past 6 months. The safety of vardenafil has not been established in these situations.
- Levitra should not be taken in combination with nitrates or nitric oxide donors (such as nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, and isosorbide mononitrate). The combination can cause a significant and potentially fatal drop in blood pressure. Patients taking nitrates in any form should not use Levitra.
- Levitra carries a risk of priapism, a condition that causes a painful erection lasting more than 6 hours. Priapism can cause permanent damage to the penile tissue if not treated promptly.
- If you are taking vardenafil, it is important to inform your doctor of all other medications you are taking as it has been known to prolong the QT interval and cause irregular heart rhythm. Your doctor may suggest safer alternatives for you to consider.
- If you are taking vardenafil, it may cause dizziness or vision changes, avoid driving, operating machinery, or any activity that requires alertness or clarity of vision until you can safely do so.
- Consumption of alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can intensify these side effects, so it is recommended to limit their usage. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis) alongside vardenafil.
- If you are taking Levitra, consult with your doctor or pharmacist before consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice as it may increase the risk of side effects. Grapefruit is known to interact with this medicine, and you should obtain more details from your doctor or pharmacist to ensure safe consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the effect of this medication last?
The effects of this medication (vardenafil) may last for up to 4 hours.
Is this medication safe?
This medication is considered safe and effective to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).
How long does it take for Vardenafil to take effect?
Vardenafil will kick in about 30-60 minutes after taking it.
REVIEWS