Vardenafil

• Generic Name: Vardenafil
• Strips of 10 x 20 mg Tablets

Vardenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction. Vardenafil is a PDE-5 inhibitor, meaning it inhibits the action of an enzyme called PDE-5. This enzyme degrades a substance called cyclic GMP that is necessary for an erection to occur. PDE-5 inhibitors allow the release of nitric oxide in the penis, which is necessary for the formation of cyclic GMP.

Vardenafil should be taken about an hour before sexual activity. Vardenafil does not cause an erection, but allows an erection in the presence of sexual stimulation. After sexual activity, the erection subsides.

Side effects of vardenafil include facial flushing, headache, altered vision, back ache, and indigestion. These are rarely unpleasant enough to cause patients to discontinue using the drug. Side effects that need prompt medical attention include sudden loss of hearing, or an erection that lasts longer than four hours.

Men who take nitrates for chest pain should not take vardenafil because it can cause a rapid drop in blood pressure that could lead to fainting or even a heart attack. Nitrates includes nitroglycerine patches or ointment, nitroglycerin pills, and isosorbide pills. Street drugs known as poppers, including amyl nitrate and butyl nitrate are also nitrates and should not be taken with vardenafil.