FDA Approves New Generic Vardenafil Hydrochloride Tablets

In combination with sexual stimulation, vardenafil works by increasing blood flow to the penis to help a man get and keep an erection. This drug does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (such as HIV, hepatitis B, gonorrhea, syphilis). Using an effective barrier method (latex or polyurethane condom/dental dams) during sexual activity will help to decrease your risk of infection. Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking vardenafil and each time you get a refill.

Vardenafil Resources

However, subtle differences, like availability and dosing, should guide informed discussions with your healthcare provider to determine the best fit for you. Vardenafil is the active ingredient in Levitra, which is no longer sold as a brand-name drug in the U.S. Although healthcare providers may still refer to it as Levitra, pharmacies provide it under its generic name, vardenafil. Below is a chart detailing key similarities and differences between these two FDA-approved prescription medications. PDE5 inhibitors, including vardenafil and Viagra, work in the same way.

Other Interactions

When used with sexual stimulation, they increase blood flow to the penis, which can lead to an erection. These medications do not cure ED, or prevent pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Both medications reach maximum effect between 30 minutes to two hours, typically around 60 minutes. Their effects can last up to four hours. Both medications can last up to about four hours after taking them.

Other Examples of PDE5 Inhibitors

Some research shows that a high-fat meal might affect vardenafil. However, clinical studies indicate no need to alter dosage or food intake. The prescribing information states that vardenafil can be taken with or without food. Like vardenafil, Viagra can also be taken with or without food. However, taking Viagra with a high-fat meal can make the medication take about an hour longer to work. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually as needed.

• Common side effects include headache, flushing, and dizziness.
• Levitra 10mg is effective for many men with ED.
• The drug enhances the natural process of erection.
• Use with caution if you have a history of vision loss.
• The tablet should be taken approximately an hour before sex.
• Levitra 10mg does not impact libido.
• It is important to hydrate well when taking this medication.
• Check with a doctor if you experience chest pain.
• Do not share your medication with others.
• Use as directed to prevent potential health risks.
• Do not use Levitra 10mg if you are under 18.

Take vardenafil, with or without food, about 1 hour before sexual activity. Do not take more than once daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely.

Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better. Headache, flushing, stuffy/runny nose, or dizziness may occur. Vision changes such as increased sensitivity to light, blurred vision, or trouble telling blue and green colors apart may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

• Levitra 10mg is a popular choice due to fewer side effects.
• It should be used with caution in high blood pressure patients.
• The medication is available in blister packs for convenience.
• Do not use if allergic to vardenafil.
• Seek emergency care if adverse reactions occur.
• The tablet should be taken as needed, not daily.
• Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Levitra.
• Use caution if combining with recreational drugs.
• The medication may cause mild indigestion.
• Levitra 10mg has a fast acting formula.
• Always keep the medication out of children's reach.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.

• Levitra 10mg tablets are designed for quick absorption.
• The medication helps achieve and maintain an erection.
• Alcohol consumption can diminish effectiveness.
• Use only as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
• It is not a cure, just a treatment for symptoms.
• The pill should be swallowed whole, not chewed.
• Some users may experience a headache after taking it.
• Do not take more than one tablet per day.
• Levitra 10mg is a safe option for most men when used properly.
• Always check ingredients if you have known allergies.
• Contact your doctor if side effects persist or worsen.

Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

About Levitra (vardenafil)

In addition to vardenafil and Viagra, other PDE5 inhibitors include Stendra (avanafil) and Cialis (tadalafil). Some PDE5 inhibitors also treat different conditions. For example, Revatio contains sildenafil, like Viagra, but is used for pulmonary arterial hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs). Healthcare providers may also prescribe Cialis in lower doses for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Few studies directly compare vardenafil and sildenafil.

Talk to your medical provider regarding your Levitra prescription.

An older study of these drugs, plus tadalafil, found vardenafil to be more potent than sildenafil, though both effectively treated ED. Tadalafil (Cialis) was preferred for its longer-lasting effects but was similarly effective. Another study found vardenafil to be better tolerated than sildenafil. The American Urological Association does not favor one over the other, focusing on individual suitability. Experts also recommend lifestyle changes and mental health referrals in ED treatment.

Professional resources

Adjusting diet and increasing exercise may help. Numbness, burning, or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs Pain in the muscles, back, arms, or legs A serious eye condition known as nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) can occur with vardenafil or Viagra. If you notice vision changes or loss, stop taking these medications and seek medical help immediately. Individuals with a history of NAION or a "crowded" optic disc are at greater risk. Some may also experience color vision changes, such as seeing blue tinges or difficulty telling blue and green apart. Sexual activity may put extra strain on your heart, especially if you have heart problems. If you have heart problems and experience any of these serious side effects while having sex, stop and get medical help right away: Rarely, sudden decreased vision, including permanent blindness, in one or both eyes (NAION) may occur. If this serious problem occurs, stop taking vardenafil and get medical help right away. You have a slightly greater chance of developing NAION if you have heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, certain other eye problems ("crowded disk"), high blood pressure, if you are over 50, or if you smoke. Rarely, a sudden decrease or loss of hearing, sometimes with ringing in the ears and dizziness, may occur. Stop taking vardenafil and get medical help right away if these effects occur. In the rare event you have a painful or prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours, stop using this drug and get medical help right away, or permanent problems could occur. Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat) This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

How to make Levitra more effective?

There are two ways to take Cialis. The first way is similar to vardenafil or Viagra, which is to take it about an hour before sexual activity. Cialis can also be taken at a low dose once a day regularly, without regard to sexual activity. Then, sexual activity can occur at any time in combination with stimulation. Vardenafil levitra 20 mg bayer is used to treat male sexual function problems (impotence or erectile dysfunction-ED). Before taking vardenafil, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart problems (such as heart attack or life-threatening irregular heartbeat in the past 6 months, chest pain/angina, heart failure) penis conditions (such as angulation, fibrosis/scarring, Peyronie's disease) conditions that may increase the risk of priapism (such as sickle cell anemia, leukemia, multiple myeloma) eye problems (such as retinitis pigmentosa, sudden decreased vision, NAION) This drug may make you dizzy or cause vision changes. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely.

What should I avoid while using Levitra?

Inform your healthcare provider about any heart problems, as there are heart-related risks with sexual activity. You have an erection lasting more than four hours. You have symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. You have vision changes or vision loss in one or both eyes. Vardenafil or Viagra interact with various drugs, so be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, and supplements.

What happens if I take too much Levitra?

Vardenafil or Viagra should never be taken with nitrate drugs such as isosorbide mononitrate or nitroglycerin. Vardenafil or Viagra can also interact with other medications, such as: Alpha blockers, which are used to treat BPH and high blood pressure: Examples include Flomax (tamsulosin) and Uroxatral (alfuzosin) Other blood pressure medications, such as Norvasc (amlodipine) Certain antifungals, such as ketoconazole and itraconazole To get the best results, follow the instructions on your medication's label for taking it. Generally, Viagra and vardenafil have similar recommendations for how to take them, which are: Both should be taken about 60 minutes before sex for optimal response. However, Viagra can be taken anywhere between 30 minutes and up to four hours before sexual activity. Sexual stimulation is required for the medication to take effect.

How Long Do They Last?

Do not take more than one tablet (regardless of dosage) in a 24-hour period. If your results with either medication are not as expected, consult your healthcare provider for professional medical advice. You may need a higher or lower dose or a different medication. Cialis is a commonly prescribed medication for ED. Like vardenafil and Viagra, Cialis takes about 60 minutes to work and must be used in combination with sexual stimulation. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis). Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). This medication is not usually used in women.

• Levitra 10mg is often chosen for its quick onset.
• It is a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor.
• Avoid heavy meals close to taking the medication.
• Alcohol can reduce its effectiveness.
• Do not take Levitra 10mg with other ED medications.
• Be aware of rare side effects like vision changes.
• Regular use is not necessary; it’s taken on demand.
• It should be used cautiously in combination with blood pressure medicines.
• Patients should inform their doctor of all current medications.
• Levitra 10mg is available in many pharmacies.
• Use only as directed by your healthcare provider.