Vardenafil Overview

Generic Name: Vardenafil [var-DEN-a-fil]
Drug Class: Impotence Agents

Uses:

• Primary Use: Treats erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men.
• Other Uses: May be used for additional purposes not listed in the medication guide.

Dosage Forms:

• Oral Tablet: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40mg, 60mg, 80mg
• Oral Disintegrating Tablet (Staxyn): 10 mg

How It Works:

Vardenafil helps to achieve and maintain an erection by increasing blood flow to the penis. It inhibits the enzyme PDE5, which is responsible for degrading cGMP—a substance that relaxes smooth muscles and increases blood flow.

Administration:

• Regular Tablets: Take orally with or without food approximately 60 minutes before sexual activity.
• Staxyn Tablets: Place the tablet in the mouth and allow it to dissolve completely. Do not chew or swallow with liquid.

Dosage:

• Initial Dose for Erectile Dysfunction: 10 mg once daily, as needed, approximately 60 minutes before sexual activity. Can be adjusted to 20 mg or 5 mg based on efficacy and tolerability.
• Maximum Dose: 20 mg once daily.
• Geriatric Dose (65 years or older): Start with 5 mg once daily, as needed.

Side Effects:

• Common: Flushing, stuffy nose, headache, dizziness, upset stomach, back pain.
• Serious: Sudden vision loss, hearing loss, painful erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism), irregular heartbeat, swelling in hands/feet, shortness of breath, seizures.

Warnings:

• Drug Interactions: Avoid with nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) and certain other medications due to the risk of severe hypotension.
• Heart Conditions: Use cautiously in individuals with heart disease or those who have experienced heart attacks or strokes.
• Vision Loss: Vardenafil can potentially cause sudden vision loss; report any vision changes immediately.
• Phenylketonuria (PKU): Staxyn contains phenylalanine, which may be a concern for individuals with PKU.

Precautions:

• Pre-existing Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have any history of heart disease, high or low blood pressure, liver/kidney issues, or blood disorders.
• Sexual Activity: This medication does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

What to Avoid:

• Grapefruit: Avoid consuming grapefruit products as they can interact with vardenafil.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake as it can enhance certain side effects.

Drug Interactions:

• Do Not Use With: Other PDE5 inhibitors like avanafil, sildenafil, or tadalafil.
• Inform Your Doctor About: Antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin), antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole), blood pressure medications, heart rhythm medicines, HIV/AIDS medicines, and any other medications you are taking.

If You Miss a Dose:

• Usage: Vardenafil is used on an as-needed basis, so a missed dose is not applicable. Do not take more than once a day.

If You Overdose:

• Seek emergency medical attention immediately or contact the Poison Help line.

Storage:

• Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting or adjusting medication to ensure safety and effectiveness tailored to your health needs.

Note: 

The brand name displayed above is specific to this product. Brand names can vary depending on the manufacturer.