Drug Name
Levitra (Vardenafil)

Drug Uses

Levitra (Vardenafil) is used to treat male sexual function problems (erectile dysfunction or impotence) by blocking a certain enzyme (phosphodiesterase-PDE5). In combination with sexual stimulation, vardenafil works by helping the blood flow into the penis to achieve and maintain an erection.
Use of Levirta does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (e.g., HIV, hepatitis B, gonorrhea, syphilis). Practice "safe sex" such as using latex condoms. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

How to use Levitra Oral

Levitra should be taken as needed, about an hour before sexual activity. Some form of sexual stimulation is needed for an erection to occur with Levitra. Levitra should not be taken more than once daily. Allow 24 hours to pass between doses. Benefits:

A high fat meal may decrease the amount of drug that is absorbed.
Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while you are being treated with this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to therapy, and other medications you may be taking (see also Drug Interactions section). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Read the patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist and ask questions if any of the information is unclear.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Levitra is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that works by helping the blood flow into the penis to achieve and maintain an erection.


Missed Dose

Levitra is used as needed, so you are not likely to miss a dose.
Storage

Store at 25 degrees C (77 degrees F); excursions permitted to 15-30 degrees C (59-86 degrees F). Keep Levitra and all medicines out of the reach of children and away from moisture and heat.

Warnings/Precautions
Do not use Levitra if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Levitra;
• you are taking or using nitroglycerin (eg, tablet, patch, ointment), nitrates (eg, isosorbide), or certain antiarrhythmics (eg, amiodarone, quinidine);
• you have had a heart attack, stroke, or life-threatening irregular heartbeat within the past 6 months;
• you have certain eye problems (eg, retina diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa), uncontrolled chest pain, uncontrolled high blood pressure, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat (eg, congenital QT prolongation), severe heart failure, severe liver problems, or end-stage kidney disease that requires dialysis.

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away, if any of these apply to you.

Possible Side Effects
Stop using vardenafil and call your doctor at once, if you have any of these serious side effects:

• sudden vision loss;
• ringing in your ears, or sudden hearing loss;
• chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;
• irregular heartbeat;
• swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet;
• shortness of breath;
• vision changes;
• feeling light-headed, fainting; or
• penis erection that is painful or lasts 4 hours or longer.

Less serious side effects may include:

• warmth or redness in your face, neck, or chest;
• stuffy nose;
• headache;
• upset stomach; or
• back pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

More Information
Levitra is available with a prescription under the brand name Levitra. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new for you.