Levitra - side effects, indications, contraindications, use

Levitra, known by its generic name as Vardenafil, is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. It works by boosting the flow of blood towards the penis when sexual stimulation occurs. This action leads to a successful erection.

Levitra's action primarily involves inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). The primary role of PDE5 is to break down cGMP, a substance that relaxes and widens blood vessels to enhance blood flow. By inhibiting PDE5, Levitra ensures that cGMP levels remain high, thereby promoting increased blood flow.

It's important to note that Levitra doesn't cause an instant erection but facilitates it through sexual stimulation. Upon sexual arousal, nitric oxide is released in the penis, which encourages production of cGMP. Levitra's action of blocking PDE5 prevents the breakdown of cGMP, maintaining its levels and hence promoting a normal, stable erection.

Levitra's onset of action is typically within one hour of oral administration, and its effects can last up to four hours. However, the duration can vary among individuals based on factors such as age, health conditions, and use of other medications.

Understanding Levitra's action is vital for its effective use. It helps users know what to expect and how to best use the drug for optimal results. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or changing your dosage.

Levitra, generically known as vardenafil, is primarily indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), a common issue in men. This condition is characterized by the inability to attain or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. Levitra works by increasing blood flow to the penis to aid in achieving an erection.

It is important to note that Levitra is not an aphrodisiac. It does not stimulate sexual desire but rather works to physically enable an erection in response to sexual stimulation. Levitra is also not a hormone or a fertility drug.

Although the primary indication for Levitra is treating ED, it may also be used off-label in some cases. These off-label uses often depend on the discretion of the healthcare provider and may include treatment of premature ejaculation and Raynaud's phenomenon, a condition where spasm of arteries cause episodes of reduced blood flow.

Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, may also benefit from using Levitra. However, these uses are not routinely done and are not FDA approved.

It is important to seek medical advice before using Levitra for any condition. The medication should always be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional and should not be used recreationally or without a prescription.

While Levitra can be a highly effective medication for treating erectile dysfunction, it is not suitable for everyone. There are several contraindications to its use that must be considered to ensure patient safety.

Levitra is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to vardenafil or any other ingredient in the medication. It can provoke allergic reactions which can be severe in nature, including anaphylaxis and angioedema.

Levitra should not be taken by individuals who are currently on nitrate therapy for angina or other heart conditions, as it can lead to a severe drop in blood pressure. This includes medications such as nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate, and isosorbide dinitrate. The use of Levitra is also contraindicated with nitric oxide donors such as amyl nitrite.

The medication is contraindicated in patients taking potent cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitors, including ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, indinavir, saquinavir, atazanavir, and clarithromycin. These medications can significantly increase the concentration of Levitra in the blood, leading to potential side effects.

Levitra should not be used in men for whom sexual activity is inadvisable due to their underlying cardiovascular status. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment, end stage renal disease requiring dialysis, recent history of stroke or myocardial infarction, or hereditary degenerative retinal disorders, including retinitis pigmentosa.

Lastly, Levitra is not indicated for use in women or children and adolescents under the age of 18.

Levitra, a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction, has various side effects that users should be aware of. While most people taking Levitra do not experience significant side effects, it's always crucial to understand what these potential effects could be.

Common side effects of Levitra include:

• Headache
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling)
• Dizziness
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Stomach upset
• Heartburn
• Nausea

These side effects usually go away after a few hours. However, if they persist or worsen, seek medical attention immediately.

Some people may experience serious side effects. These include:

• Sudden decreased vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes (NAION)
• Sudden hearing loss
• An erection that lasts longer than 4 hours (priapism)
• Chest pain or heavy feeling
• Pain spreading to the arm or shoulder
• Nausea, sweating

If any of these serious side effects occur, stop using Levitra and get medical help right away. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because they have judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.

The dosage of Levitra varies and must always be prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider. It's important to remember that the dose may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability.

For most patients, the recommended starting dose of Levitra is 10 mg, taken orally, approximately 60 minutes before sexual activity. The dose may be increased to a maximum recommended dose of 20 mg or decreased to 5 mg based on efficacy and tolerability. However, the maximum recommended dosing frequency is once per day.

In patients with moderate hepatic impairment, an initial dose of 5 mg should be considered. Depending on the adequacy of the response or side effects, the dose may be increased to 20 mg or decreased to 5 mg a day. Patients with severe hepatic impairment should avoid Levitra's use.

Older adults (over 65 years) may respond more strongly to this drug, and therefore, an initial dose of 5 mg is recommended. It could be increased up to 20 mg or reduced to 5 mg, considering individual efficacy and tolerability.

Levitra can be taken with or without food, but it's advised not to consume large or high-fat meals as it may delay the drug's effect. Also, alcohol consumption should be limited as it may increase Levitra's side effects.

Levitra, chemically known as Vardenafil, is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition where a man is unable to get or maintain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. The drug works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual activity, which results in an erection. It is worth noting that Levitra does not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, and syphilis. Therefore, appropriate measures should be taken to protect against these diseases.

It is essential to take Levitra as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. The usual recommended dosage is 10mg, taken orally, about an hour before sexual activity. However, the dosage may be adjusted by your doctor based on your health condition, response to the treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Remember not to take more than one dose in a 24-hour period.

Levitra can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to avoid high-fat meals as they can delay the effectiveness of the drug. Also, Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Levitra and lead to unwanted side effects. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid consuming grapefruit products while taking this medication.

Finally, it is important to remember that sexual stimulation is required for Levitra to work. The drug does not produce an erection without sexual arousal.

While taking Levitra, there are certain precautions that need to be adhered to ensure your safety and the efficacy of the medication. It is highly recommended that you share with your doctor your complete medical history before beginning the treatment.

People with heart problems should take Levitra with caution. This medication can cause a sudden decrease in blood pressure leading to fainting, strokes, or heart attacks. If during sexual activity you feel nauseated, dizzy, or experience pain, tingling, or numbness in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw, stop and seek medical attention immediately.

Alcohol can increase the side effects of Levitra. It is recommended to limit or avoid alcohol consumption when taking this medication. Also, grapefruit or grapefruit juice may interact with Levitra, leading to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products.

Do not use Levitra if you are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems. This includes nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, and isosorbide mononitrate. Nitrates are also found in some recreational drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite ("poppers"). Using Levitra with a nitrate medicine can result in a sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure.

Before taking Levitra, inform your doctor if you have high or low blood pressure, seizure disorders, liver or kidney disease, a blood cell disorder, hearing or vision problems, or a physical deformity of the penis. These conditions may require special consideration or dosing adjustments in order for Levitra to be used safely.

Lastly, Levitra should not be used by anyone under the age of 18 without a doctor's advice. Always follow your doctor's instructions and use Levitra only for the condition it was prescribed for.

Interactions usually occur when Levitra is taken alongside other medications, foods, or substances, which may alter the way Levitra works. Such interactions can potentially increase the risk of side effects or change the effectiveness of this medication.

Firstly, it's important to note that Levitra should not be used with medications that contain nitrates. These are often prescribed for chest pain, and when combined with Levitra, they can cause a sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure.

Another significant interaction is with certain medications used to treat HIV/AIDS, such as ritonavir, indinavir sulfate, saquinavir, atazanavir sulfate, or nelfinavir. These drugs can increase vardenafil levels in the body, thereby increasing the risk of Levitra side effects.

Alpha-blockers, a type of medication used to treat high blood pressure or an enlarged prostate, can also interact with Levitra, leading to low blood pressure, dizziness, or fainting.

In terms of food interactions, grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Levitra and lead to unwanted side effects. Therefore, the consumption of grapefruit products should be avoided while taking this medication.

Lastly, alcohol consumption can increase the risk of certain side effects of Levitra, such as rapid heart rate, dizziness, and headaches. Thus, it's advisable to limit or avoid alcohol while taking Levitra.

Always inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you're currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, and recreational drugs, before starting treatment with Levitra. Never start a new medication without consulting your doctor.

The price of Levitra can depend on several factors, such as the dosage, the form, the location, and where you purchase it from. It is a prescription medication, and the cost can also depend on whether insurance covers it.

On an average, the price for one tablet of Levitra 20mg may range from $15 to $25 in the United States. Please note, this is an approximate price and the actual cost may vary depending on various factors.

It is also available in other dosage forms such as 5mg, 10mg, and 40mg, and the price will vary accordingly. It's important to remember that buying larger quantities may reduce the cost per tablet.

Generic alternatives of Levitra, vardenafil, are typically less expensive. The average cost of generic Levitra can range from $1 to $3 per tablet. Again, the actual cost may vary.

Please consult your healthcare provider or a pharmacist for the most accurate pricing information.

While Levitra is an effective medication for erectile dysfunction, there may be instances where a substitute is required. It could be due to personal preference, a medical condition, an adverse reaction, or cost considerations. In such cases, there are various substitutes available in the market that serve the same purpose as Levitra. However, these substitutes should only be used as per the doctor's advice and prescription.

Here are some notable substitutes for Levitra:

• Viagra: This is one of the most well-known substitutes for Levitra. It contains the active ingredient Sildenafil, and its effects can last for about four hours.
• Cialis: Another popular substitute, Cialis has the active ingredient Tadalafil. It's often chosen for its longer lasting effects, which can last up to 36 hours.
• Stendra: Stendra, which contains Avanafil, is a newer medication on the market. It can start working in as little as 15 minutes.
• Staxyn: This is very similar to Levitra as it also contains Vardenafil. However, Staxyn is designed to dissolve on the tongue instead of being swallowed with water.

Remember, while these drugs perform a similar function, their dosages, timings, and potential side effects can vary. Therefore, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before switching to a Levitra substitute.