Vardenafil is the generic name for the drug Levitra. According to Drugs.com, an online drug reference, vardenafil, classified as an impotence agent, treats erectile dysfunction or ED. Mayo Clinic states vardenafil does not cure erectile dysfunction but helps temporarily alleviate the side effects of sexual impotence.
Considerations
Drugs.com advises patients with heart problems to refrain from taking vardenafil if a health care provider instructed you to avoid sexual activity. Patients with known heart disorders such as heart failure, chest pain, blood pressure disorders or liver or kidney disorders should not take this medication. Do not take vardenafil if you take nitrate medications such as nitroglycerin, antiarrhythmic medications such as quinidine or use drugs called poppers.
Proper Use
According to Mayo Clinic, vardenafil begins working within an hour and lasts up to four hours. Stimulation must occur in order to achieve an erection. Drugs.com states take this medication orally with or without food. Do not take vardenafil more than one time daily. Keep this medication stored at room temperature in a dry area away from direct light. Do not store this medication in a bathroom and keep away from children and pets.
Side Effects
Drugs.com lists side effects of vardenafil as dizziness, drowsiness, passing out and vision disturbances. Abnormal painful erections lasting more than four hours may occur and can lead to permanent sexual impotence. Contact a health care provider immediately if this side effect occurs. Other side effects, according to Mayo Clinic, include back, jaw and arm pain, blindness, chest pain or heaviness, chills, cold sweats, confusion, trouble breathing or swallowing, irregular heart rate, nausea, restlessness, vomiting and hearing loss.
Dosing
According to Mayo Clinic, the dosage of vardenafil differs according to the patient's medical condition. A health care professional will provide specific instructions regarding proper administration. Typically, adult patients up to age 65 should administer this medication as a single 10mg dose one hour prior to sexual activity. Patients older than age 65 may use a 5mg dose one hour before sexual intercourse.
Availability
According to Mayo Clinic, a health care provider must prescribe vardenafil. Available forms include 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg and 20mg tablets. Vardenafil is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
