Description

Drug Name
Levitra (Vardenafil)

Drug Uses
Levitra is an oral therapy for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. In combination with sexual stimulation, this medicine works by helping the blood flow into the penis to achieve and maintain an erection. This medicine is not intended for use in women or children. This medicine will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases including HIV infection. Use ‘safe sex’ practices such as latex condoms.

How to use
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: 
• Levitra can act in 15 minutes compared with 30-60 minutes for Viagra;
• Levitra can be taken with food while Viagra should be taken on an empty stomach;
• Levitra has no adverse side effects on the heart or vision. Viagra is known to require more monitoring for these side effects;
• Levitra lasted longer in clinical trials compared to Viagra;
• Works for up to 6 hours;
• Recommended time to take before sex is 25-45 minutes;
• With Levitra, there are no food or alcohol restrictions.

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 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 (e.g., tablet, patch, ointment), nitrates (e.g., isosorbide), or certain antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone, quinidine);
• you have had a heart attack, stroke, or life-threatening irregular heartbeat within the past 6 months;
• you have certain eye problems (e.g., retina diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa), uncontrolled chest pain, uncontrolled high blood pressure, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat (e.g., 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 Levitra 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
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication.