Levitra is a brand name prescription drug indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It contains the generic medication vardenafil hydrochloride and is available in 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg and 20 mg tablets. The drug is normally taken one hour prior to anticipated sexual activity. Like all erectile dysfunction drugs, Levitra has several known drug interactions.
Nitrates
The "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide" explains that Levitra should not be used by men who take nitrates as dangerously low blood pressure or serious heart problems can occur, including a heart attack. Nitrates are commonly used by heart patients for prevention or treatment of chest pain, called angina. Common medications that contain nitrates include nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate and isosorbide dinitrate. These medications come in oral, spray, ointment, patch and other forms. They are usually swallowed, placed under the tongue or placed on the skin and may be used on a regular basis or just when needed.
Alpha Blockers
The "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide" explains that Levitra should not be mixed with alpha blocker drugs. These medications are indicated for high blood pressure, enlarged prostate and other disorders. The interaction between alpha blockers and Levitra can cause serious cardiovascular problems, including low blood pressure and heart attack. Commonly prescribed alpha blockers include terazosin, tamsulosin, doxazosin, phentolamine, phenoxybenzamine, alfuzosin and prazosin. They are usually taken by mouth on a regular basis.
Other Erectile Dysfunction Drugs
According to Drugs.com, men taking vardenafil hydrochloride should not take other erectile dysfunction medications unless instructed to do so by their physician. This includes prescription medications and herbs that are used to treat impotence. A range of drug interactions could occur if these medicines are used at the same time.
Antiretrovirals
According to the drug manufacturer, Levitra should be used with caution by patients taking antiretrovirals for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV. People taking ritonavir in particular are advised to only take the smallest dose of Levitra--2.5mg--no more often than every 72 hours if at all. This is due to the ability of the antiretrovirals to increase the levels of the active ingredient of Levitra in the blood.
Other Medications
Several other medications have potentially serious interactions with Levitra. Men should tell the physician who prescribes Levitra of any other medication they are taking or planning to take. It is important to only take Levitra under the guidance of a health care professional.
References
- "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide"; Amy M. Karch, R.N., M.S.; 2010
- Bayer HealthCare: Levitra Prescribing Information
- Drugs.com: Levitra
