Levitra

Name of the Drug - Levitra (Vardenafil)

Levitra (Vardenafil) is a medication that is used in treating conditions like erectile dysfunction (male impotence). However, when likened with Viagra the drug is more rapid in its onset of action (16 minutes) and lasts slightly longer (6 hours).

Drug Indications

Levitra (Vardenafil) is a medication that is used in treating conditions like erectile dysfunction (male impotence).

How to Use

Levitra needs to be taken prior to anticipated sexual activity. It works well when taken roughly one hour earlier to having sex although it should not be taken again within the period of a day.

Benefits over Viagra

• Faster onset of effects in about 16 minutes to the 30-60 minutes taken by Viagra
• The drug can be taken even after consuming food while Viagra should be consumed prior to having food.
• No problems to the sight or the heart while Viagra will need monitoring during therapy for side effects.
• Slightly longer duration of action with no side effects or lesser occurrence of adverse effects.
• Can be taken about 25-45 minutes prior to sex while Viagra works best when taken an hour before sex.
• No limitations of food or the beverages consumed.

Drug Type and How it Works

Levitra, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor works by improving the circulation of blood to the penis thereby boosting the chances of getting and maintaining the erection.

If You Forget a Dose

As Levitra is taken before expected sexual activity the possibility of forgetting a dose is not of significance.

Instructions for Storage

Retain the medication at 25 degrees C (77 degrees F) although the temperature can vary between 15-30 degrees C (59-86 degrees F).

Safety Guidelines

Levitra should not be taken if any of the following hold good for you:

• Allergies to Levitra or any of its constituents.
• If you are presently taking or using any drugs that contain nitrate such as nitroglycerin ointment (Nitrol, Nitro-Bid), nitroglycerin patches (Nitro-Dur, Transderm-Nitro), isosorbide pills (Sorbitrate, Isordil, Dilatrate-SR) or nitroglycerin pills (Nitrostat, Nitro-Bid) or any antiarrhythmics like quinidine or amiodarone.
• In the last six months, you have ailed due to stroke or any other serious heart problems.
• You have systemic conditions like severe hypertension or hypotension, heart problems, heart failure, eye conditions like retinitis pigmentosa, kidney disease or severe liver conditions.

Adverse Effects of the Drug

Some people might suffer from serious adverse effects such as

• Severe allergies
• Symptoms of cardiac problems like nausea, dizziness, etc
• Breathing problems
• Inflammation of the extremities
• Dizziness that is severe and often of long duration
• Heart problems and pain in the chest
• Pain with erection or erection that is of long duration

People who experience these side effects must immediately stop using the drug and get immediate professional medical help.

Those who suffer from minor side effects can continue use of the drug but inform the doctor regarding the same. Some minor side effects of the drug include

• Vision abnormalities including tints to the vision
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness of mild nature
• Flushing
• Itch or rash
• Nasal congestion
• Headache

You can also suffer from some other adverse effects that are not mentioned over here. Please inform the doctor about any such adverse effects at the earliest and seek advice.

Added Information

Vardenafil is a prescription drug that is marketed with the brand name Levitra although you might find other brand names of the generic product. Check with the pharmacist if you have any queries regarding this drug or its usage.