Levitra

The active ingredient in Levitra is vardenafil hydrochloride. Levitra functions by inhibiting an enzyme in the body called PDE5 inhibitors, which permit the relaxation of certain blood vessels. This increases blood flow to the erectile tissues of the penis when aroused, making it easier to get and maintain an erection during sexual stimulation.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Levitra. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Levitra:

• Take Levitra by mouth with or without food about 1 hour before sexual activity.
• It shouldn't be taken more than once a day at any dose.

The most common side effects of Levitra include:

• Flushing.
• Upset stomach.
• Runny nose.
• Sinus pain.
• Back pain.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Levitra. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Heart problem symptoms - chest pain or irregular heartbeat.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension).
• Loss of vision.
• Sudden hearing loss.
• Erection is painful or stays longer than 4 hours (which can damage the penis).

These are not all of the possible side effects of Levitra. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Levitra, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Heart disease, heart rhythm problems, heart attack, chest pain (angina), long QT syndrome, or heart failure.
• Stroke.
• Seizure.
• Severe allergic reactions.
• High or low blood pressure.
• Blood cell disorders such as sickle cell anemia or leukemia.
• Bleeding disorder.
• Stomach ulcer.
• Eye disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa.
• Physical deformity of the penis (Peyronie's disease).
• History of priapism (painful and prolonged erection).
• Liver disease.
• Kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis).

• Taking Levitra with nitrate medicines can cause a significant drop in blood pressure.
• Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice since it can raise Levitra levels, increasing side effect risks.
• Individuals with allergies to vardenafil and Staxyn should not take these medications.

Some studies show that Levitra can start to work as soon as 15 minutes but it is recommended that you should take it around 60 minutes before sexual activity.

When Levitra is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Nitrate medication, including amyl nitrite, nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate, and some recreational drugs such as "poppers".
• Guanylate cyclase stimulators, such as riociguat.
• Antibiotics (clarithromycin, erythromycin).
• Antifungal medicines (itraconazole, ketoconazole).
• Alpha-blockers.
• Medicines to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) or a prostate disorder (doxazosin, tamsulosin).
• Heart rhythm medicines (amiodarone, procainamide).
• HIV/AIDS medicines (ritonavir).
• Similar medications to Levitra (avanafil, sildenafil, tadalafil, Viagra, Cialis, Staxyn).

Levitra comes in several doses including:

• 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg oral tablets.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Bayer is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures the brand name Levitra.

Brand name Levitra has been discontinued but there are lower-cost generics available.

If you are experiencing any serious side effects, stop taking Levitra and talk to your doctor immediately.

It is not known if or how Levitra could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. However, it is not approved for use in women.

It is not known if Levitra is found in breast milk or what effect it could have on your nursing baby. However, it is not approved for use in women.