Levitra (vardenafil) is a medication used to manage erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence. According to Drugs.com, Levitra is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that allows the penile muscles to relax. This promotes an increased amount of blood flow to the penis, and an erection results. The National Library of Medicine says that you will typically take 10mg orally at least one hour prior to sexual activity. Its maximum daily dose is 20mg.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, Levitra's common side effects include a headache, heartburn, nasal congestion and flushing. Heartburn refers to a condition in which you experience a burning sensation when stomach acid moves up your digestive tract to your esophagus. Over-the-counter antacids should relieve this condition. Levitra can also cause stomach problems and a runny nose. Inform your physician when Levitra's common effects last for more than one to two weeks. She may lower your dosage to prevent you from developing these side effects.
Serious Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine says that Levitra can decrease your blood pressure when you are lying down. This is medically called orthostatic hypotension. Signs of hypotension include fainting spells, blurry vision, weakness, fatigue and lightheadedness. Drugs.com indicates that Levitra may also cause sudden vision loss, shortness of breath, convulsions and an erection that lasts for more than four hours. Convulsions typically occur as a consequence of increased brain electrical activity. Prolonged electrical activity can be potentially life-threatening, as brain damage and death can ensue. An erection that lasts for longer than four hours is called priapism. This is an emergency. Go to your local hospital, as your doctor can drain the blood in your penis. Permanent sexual dysfunction can occur if priapism is left untreated. Levitra can also cause chest pain that moves down your arm, swelling of your extremities and sudden hearing loss. Phone your doctor immediately when Levitra causes these effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Levitra if you are hypersensitive to it or phosphodiesterase inhibitors. A hypersensitivity reaction to Levitra includes trouble breathing, hives and facial or tongue swelling. Drugs.com says you shouldn't use Levitra if you are also taking nitrate medications for chest pain. Nitrates and Levitra combined can lead to a potentially fatal condition in which your blood pressure becomes too low. Inform your doctor if you have heart disease, bleeding problems, blood disorders, liver disease or stomach ulcers. Levitra's dosage might have to be adjusted to prevent the aforementioned serious side effects.
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