Description
Levitra is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition where a person is unable to get or maintain an erection for sexual intercourse. ED can be caused by physical, mental, or other medical conditions.
Levitra works by relaxing blood vessels that fill the corpus cavernosum of the penis. Sexual stimulation is required for Levitra to be effective, and it will not work on its own.
Directions
The starting Levitra dosage is 10 mg by mouth as needed, about 60 minutes before sexual activity. The dose may be decreased to 5 mg or increased to 20 mg.
Do not take more than one tablet of Levitra per day unless directed by your healthcare provider.
If you have liver dysfunction, you may need to reduce the starting dose to 5 mg.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Levitra is Vardenafil, which is also the name for Levitra generic.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C23H32N6O4S |
License |
EU EMA |
Bioavailability |
15% |
Legal status |
RX Only |
Chemical Name |
Verdenafil |
Elimination half-life |
4-5 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
5mg (8 tablets, 32 tablets), 10mg (4 tablets, 8 tablets, 12 tablets), 20mg (4 tablets, 8 tablets, 12 tablets) |
Pregnancy |
Consult a doctor |
Brands |
Levitra |
Protein binding |
95% |
PubChem CID |
110634 |
MedlinePlus |
a603035 |
ChEBI |
46295 |
ATC code |
G04BE09 |
DrugBank |
DB00862 |
KEGG |
D08668 |
Routes of administration |
Oral |
Interactions
Levitra has many potential drug-drug interactions with other medications. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all other medications you are taking, including:
- Abametapir
- Alpha-1-blockers
- Alprostadil
- Amyl Nitrite (Poppers)
- Cialis
- Dapoxetine
- Fusidic acid
- Itraconazole
- Ketoconazole
- Molsidomine
- Nitroprusside
- Organic nitrates
- Riociguat
- Ritonavir
- Vericiguat
- Viagra
Cautions
Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart problems.
If you have an erection lasting longer than four hours, especially if it is painful, then seek immediate medical attention.
Levitra can affect the vision of some people.
Use caution when taking other medications that lower blood pressure and when consuming foods high in nitrates, like preserved meat.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Levitra may include:
- Back pain
- Dizziness
- Dyspepsia
- Flu-like symptoms
- Flushing
- Headache
- Increased creatinine phosphokinase
- Nasal congestion
- Nausea
- Rhinitis
- Sinusitis
References
- Levitra [package insert]. Research Triangle Park, NC: Bayer; 2014.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 2450