Levitra (vardenafil) is a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction in men. Erectile dysfunction occurs when a man cannot maintain an erection that is suitable for sexual intercourse. Before beginning treatment with this medication, talk to your doctor about the dangers of Levitra.
Vision Loss
Levitra works by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more efficiently throughout the body. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that use of this medication can cause patients to develop a condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, which leads to damage of the optic nerve within the eyes. This medical condition can cause permanent vision changes and may result in the loss of vision in one or both eyes. These dangerous vision loss symptoms can occur suddenly and should be immediately reported to your primary care physician if they occur.
Hearing Loss
In November 2007, the FDA provided a post-market drug safety warning for Levitra (and related drugs) noting that the use of this medication can cause sudden hearing loss. In some patients, hearing loss may occur in conjunction with ringing or buzzing within the ears, a condition called tinnitus. Hearing loss that develops during Levitra treatment may be accompanied by sensations of dizziness or lightheadedness, which can cause you to become unstable when you stand up or begin to walk.
Prolonged Erection
Use of this medication may put you in danger of developing prolonged or painful penile erections (priaprism) that last for more than six hours. If left untreated, the FDA warns that priaprism can cause permanent damage to the penile tissue, which can lead to impotency. Impotency is a male medical condition that may affect your ability to have children.
Heart-Related Abnormalties
Increased blood flow throughout the body caused by the use of this medication can lead to dangerous heart-related side effects. During treatment with Levitra, you can develop an abnormally fast or slow heartbeat that may occur in conjunction with chest pain. Such symptoms may be more likely to occur in men with pre-existing cardiovascular problems. Heart-rate abnormalities can also arise during sexual activity and can lead to symptoms of heart attack in some men. Seek emergency medical care if you develop any heart-related abnormalities while taking Levitra.
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