What is this medication for?
Vardenafil belongs to the class of medications called phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors). These medications work by increasing smooth muscle relaxation and allowing blood to flow into the penis. Vardenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction (male impotence). It helps a man achieve and keep an erection when he is sexually stimulated. Vardenafil does not increase sexual desire.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Levitra® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual starting dose is 10 mg. Your doctor may recommend a dose as low as 2.5 mg or as high as 20 mg. Some men can only take a low dose of vardenafil because of medical conditions or medicines they take. Your doctor will prescribe the dose that is right for you.
Swallow the tablet whole with water. It may be taken with or without food.
This medication should be taken about 60 minutes before sexual activity. Do not take this medication more than once a day. Doses should be taken at least 24 hours apart.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take higher doses of this medication than prescribed by your doctor. Contact your doctor if you do take a higher dose of vardenafil than prescribed. Keep this medication out of reach and sight of children. This medication should be stored at room temperature, between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C).
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not use this medication if you:
- are allergic to vardenafil or any other ingredients of the medication
- have been advised by your doctor not to engage in sexual activity
- are taking any medication that contains nitrates (e.g., amyl nitrite "poppers," isosorbide mononitrate, isorbide dinitrate, nitroglycerin) either regularly and/or intermittently
Nitrates are found in medications that are used to treat angina (chest pain). If you are not sure if you are taking nitrates, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Nitrates must NOT be taken by anyone who is using vardenafil because they can cause your blood pressure to drop very low. This may cause dizziness, fainting, heart attack, or stroke.