Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn): Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD
What is Vardenafil used for?
Vardenafil is primarily prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, a medical condition characterized by the difficulty of achieving or maintaining an erection suitable for satisfactory sexual performance.
In addition, healthcare providers may prescribe vardenafil for other related conditions, as deemed appropriate based on individual patient needs and circumstances.
How does Vardenafil work (mechanism of action)?
The mechanism of action of vardenafil involves the inhibition of an enzyme known as PDE5, which plays a crucial role in regulating blood flow. By blocking this enzyme, vardenafil effectively relaxes the smooth muscle tissues in specific blood vessels, resulting in increased blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal, thereby facilitating the physiological process necessary for an erection.
How is Vardenafil supplied (dosage forms)?
Brands and alternative names for vardenafil include:
- Staxyn
- Levitra
Available dosage forms and strengths of vardenafil include:
- 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg oral tablets
- 10 mg orally disintegrating tablets that dissolve without the need for water
How should I store Vardenafil?
Store vardenafil at room temperature, ideally between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Short-term exposure to temperatures ranging from 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C) is acceptable during transport. Ensure it is kept in a cool, dry environment.
Do not remove an orally disintegrating tablet from its blister pack until you are ready to take it. It should not be used if the blister pack has been compromised or is missing.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of Vardenafil?
The side effects that may be most frequently encountered with vardenafil are as follows. These effects may vary based on the specific formulation prescribed. It is important to inform your healthcare provider if any of these side effects prove bothersome or persistent.
- Headache
- Flushing (redness or warmth in the face)
- Stuffy or runny nose, or inflamed sinuses
- Upset stomach or gastrointestinal discomfort
- Flu-like symptoms such as body aches
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea or feelings of queasiness
- Back pain or discomfort
Additional side effects may occur that are not included in this list. If you suspect you are experiencing an adverse effect related to the use of vardenafil, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance. In the U.S., side effects can also be reported to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, reports can be made to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.
What are the serious side effects of Vardenafil?
Though rare, serious side effects associated with vardenafil are outlined below, along with recommended actions should they occur.
Severe Allergic Reactions. Vardenafil may trigger allergic reactions that can be severe in nature. Discontinue use immediately and seek emergency assistance if you experience any symptoms indicative of a serious allergic reaction, such as:
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Palpitations or a racing heart
- Fever or a general feeling of illness
- Swelling of lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of tightness in the throat
- Itching, skin rashes, or the development of hives
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or faintness
- Abdominal cramps or pain
- Joint pain or swelling
Painful, Prolonged Erection (Priapism). Vardenafil may lead to an erection that is painful, persistent, and can occur without any sexual stimulation. If not addressed swiftly, priapism can cause irreversible damage to the penis. If you experience any signs of priapism, seek emergency medical care immediately, especially if you notice:
- An erection lasting more than four hours
- An erection not related to sexual arousal
- Significant pain or tenderness of the penis
Vision Changes. Some users of vardenafil may experience mild but temporary changes in vision, including a blue tint, unusual color perception, blurred vision, or light sensitivity. Rare cases of permanent vision loss have been reported. If you notice sudden loss of vision in either or both eyes, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.
Hearing Loss. Reports of sudden hearing loss have been associated with vardenafil use, often accompanied by dizziness and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). If hearing loss occurs or if you experience difficulties with hearing, stop taking vardenafil and consult your healthcare provider promptly.
Heart Rhythm Changes. Vardenafil has the potential to induce a rare yet serious heart rhythm disturbance known as QT prolongation. Those with pre-existing conditions, such as long QT syndrome, or those on certain heart rhythm medications may be at increased risk. If you experience fainting, or any noticeable changes in heart rate or rhythm, including rapid or irregular heartbeats, notify your healthcare provider without delay.
Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension). Vardenafil can result in a mild, temporary decrease in blood pressure. Individuals with specific health conditions or who are on medication for hypertension may experience heightened risks. If you feel dizzy or faint, recline or lie down, and inform your healthcare provider of any symptoms associated with low blood pressure, such as:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- General weakness or fatigue
- Fainting spells
- Experiencing confusion or disorientation
Warnings & Precautions
Who should not take Vardenafil?
Allergies to Ingredients. Individuals who have known allergies to any of the following substances should refrain from using vardenafil:
- Vardenafil itself
- Levitra
- Staxyn
- Any other ingredients included in the specific formulation dispensed
Consult your pharmacist for a comprehensive list of ingredients found in the vardenafil products available.
Drug Interactions. Vardenafil must not be used concurrently with certain medications. Prior to beginning vardenafil, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, herbal products, vitamins/minerals, and supplements you are currently taking. For detailed information, refer to the Interactions section.
What should I know about Vardenafil before taking it?
Do not initiate vardenafil treatment unless it has been specifically prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider. Always follow the prescribed regimen accurately.
Do not share your vardenafil medication with anyone else, even if they present with similar symptoms or conditions. Doing so may jeopardize their health.
Ensure that vardenafil is stored out of reach of children to prevent any accidental ingestion.
Do not chew, cut, or crush orally disintegrating tablets of vardenafil; they should dissolve entirely on your tongue without additional liquids.
Engaging in sexual activity may impose additional exertion on your heart, possibly posing risks for individuals with certain pre-existing conditions, such as those who recently experienced a heart attack. Consult with your healthcare provider to confirm your heart's readiness for sexual activity. If you experience chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sexual intercourse, discontinue immediately and contact your healthcare provider.
Vardenafil does not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
As a member of the phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitor family of medications, which are utilized to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension, you must avoid taking more than one PDE-5 inhibitor concurrently. Other members of this class include avanafil (Stendra), sildenafil (Viagra, Revatio, and others), tadalafil (Cialis and others), and vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn).
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking Vardenafil?
Keep your healthcare provider informed about all health conditions you have and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, or other supplements you consume. This information will assist them in evaluating whether vardenafil is appropriate for your situation.
Particularly, ensure to mention the following health concerns:
Phenylketonuria (PKU). Since phenylalanine is a constituent of vardenafil oral tablets and orally disintegrating tablets, it can be hazardous for individuals with PKU. Inform your healthcare provider if you have this condition; they may propose an alternative treatment approach.
Other Current and Past Health Conditions. Be forthcoming with your healthcare provider if you have or have had any of the following:
- Cardiovascular issues, including arrhythmias, angina, or heart failure
- Myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, or cardiac surgical procedures conducted within the last six months
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Hypertension (high blood pressure) that remains uncontrolled despite treatment
- Peyronie's disease or any penis deformity
- An erection lasting longer than four hours (priapism)
- Blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia
- Inherited retinal diseases like retinitis pigmentosa
- Vision impairment or issues affecting the optic nerve
- Risk factors for optic nerve problems, including diabetes, hyperlipidemia, smoking, age over 50, or the presence of a crowded optic disc determined by an eye exam
- Auditory impairments or hearing difficulties
- Clotting or bleeding disorders
- Peptic ulcers
- Hepatic dysfunction
- Chronic kidney issues or those requiring dialysis
- Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease, characterized by blocked blood vessels in the lungs
Pregnancy. Individuals who could become pregnant are not typically prescribed vardenafil. The effects of vardenafil on pregnancy and its potential to harm an unborn child are not well understood. Discuss any plans for pregnancy with your healthcare provider.
Breastfeeding. Those who can breastfeed are not generally prescribed vardenafil. The possibility of vardenafil transferring into breast milk and affecting a nursing infant remains unspecified. Inform your healthcare provider if you are currently breastfeeding or intend to breastfeed in the future.
Interactions
Does vardenafil interact with foods or drinks?
Avoid grapefruit consumption while taking vardenafil, as grapefruit or its juice can significantly elevate vardenafil levels in your bloodstream, thereby increasing the risk of adverse effects.
When using vardenafil orally disintegrating tablets, it is crucial not to ingest it with water or any other liquids. Allow it to dissolve completely on your tongue without crushing it.
Currently, no known interactions between vardenafil and alcohol have been established.
Does vardenafil interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?
Always disclose to your healthcare provider any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and dietary supplements you are taking.
Specifically, it is necessary to discuss with your healthcare provider if you are currently using any of the following medications prior to taking vardenafil:
- Nitrates, including nitroglycerin (Nitro-Dur, Nitrostat, among others) or isosorbide, which are indicated for managing chest pain due to heart disease, as well as recreational drugs like amyl nitrite (“poppers”)
- Guanylate cyclase stimulators, like riociguat (Adempas) or vericiguat (Verquvo), used for certain pulmonary or cardiac conditions
- Alpha-blockers, including alfuzosin (Uroxatral), doxazosin (Cardura), dutasteride, prazosin (Minipress), silodosin (Rapaflo), tamsulosin (Flomax), and terazosin (Hytrin), often prescribed for hypertension or urinary retention due to an enlarged prostate
- Antihypertensive medications
- Protease inhibitors like ritonavir (Norvir) or atazanavir (Reyataz), which are utilized in HIV treatment
- Antifungal medications such as ketoconazole or itraconazole (Sporanox, Tolsura)
- Antibiotics like erythromycin (Ery-Tab and others) or clarithromycin (Biaxin), prescribed for bacterial infections
- Cobicistat (Tybost), a common adjunctive therapy in HIV treatment
- Antiarrhythmic drugs such as amiodarone (Pacerone and others), procainamide, quinidine, or sotalol (Betapace)
- Any other medications utilized for erectile dysfunction
Numerous additional medications may influence the blood concentrations of vardenafil or vice versa. It is vital to keep your healthcare provider updated about all medications you have taken or are currently taking.
This may not represent an exhaustive list of drugs that could interact with vardenafil. Always confirm with your healthcare provider before making any changes.
Does vardenafil interact with other drugs you are taking?
Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker for further insights.
Overdose/Missed Dose
What should I do if I accidentally take too much Vardenafil?
If you or someone else has ingested an excessive amount of vardenafil, it is imperative to obtain medical assistance urgently. Call 911 or reach out to a Poison Control center by dialing 800-222-1222.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Vardenafil?
Vardenafil is generally taken on an as-needed basis. It is advised to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations, typically about one hour prior to anticipated sexual activity. Never take double doses or more than what has been prescribed.