Understanding Vardenafil: What to Know About This Prescription Medication

Summary

Vardenafil is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It works by affecting blood flow during sexual stimulation. 

What is vardenafil?

Vardenafil is a prescription medication available in Canada as an oral tablet. It belongs to a class of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors.

Health Canada's Drug Product Database lists marketed vardenafil products in several tablet strengths, including 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg.

You may also see vardenafil associated with the brand name Levitra. However, Health Canada's Drug Product Database currently lists the original Levitra products as cancelled post-market, while generic vardenafil products remain marketed in Canada.

How does vardenafil work?

Vardenafil inhibits an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5, or PDE5. This affects a chemical signalling pathway involving cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which helps relax smooth muscle and increase blood flow during sexual stimulation.

Vardenafil does not cause an erection on its own. Sexual stimulation is still required for an erection to occur. It also does not increase sexual desire or libido.

Vardenafil belongs to the PDE5 inhibitor class of medications. Other medications in this class include sildenafil and tadalafil.

How is vardenafil taken?

Vardenafil is taken orally according to the directions provided by your practitioner. Canadian product information includes 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg tablet strengths, so the appropriate dose can vary between individuals.

The dose prescribed may depend on factors such as age, other medications, existing health conditions and how you respond to treatment. Certain people may require a lower dose or other adjustments.

Follow the instructions provided with your prescription. Do not take more than directed or change your dose without speaking with your practitioner or pharmacist.

What are the side effects of vardenafil?

Like any medication, vardenafil can cause side effects. Reported side effects include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Indigestion
• Facial flushing
• Nasal congestion
• Changes in vision
• Changes in hearing

Side effects can vary between individuals and may depend on factors such as other medications or existing health conditions.

Some symptoms require immediate medical attention. An erection lasting longer than four hours requires urgent medical care because prolonged erections can cause permanent damage. Sudden changes in vision or hearing should also be assessed promptly.

Important: If you have an erection that lasts longer than four hours, seek immediate medical attention.

What medications interact with vardenafil?

Vardenafil can interact with certain medications. Tell your practitioner or pharmacist about all prescription medications, non-prescription products and supplements you take before starting treatment.

One of the most important interactions involves nitrate medications, such as nitroglycerin. Vardenafil should not be taken with nitrates because the combination can cause a potentially dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Vardenafil can also interact with certain other medications, including some medicines that affect how the body breaks down vardenafil. Certain heart and blood-pressure medications may also require additional assessment or dose adjustments.

If you take medication for heart problems, blood pressure or another ongoing condition, make sure your practitioner knows before taking vardenafil.

Who should speak with a practitioner before taking vardenafil?

Vardenafil may not be appropriate for everyone. Speak with a practitioner before taking it if you have certain heart problems, abnormal heart rhythms, blood-pressure concerns, kidney problems or liver problems.

Your practitioner should also know about your complete medication history and whether you have previously experienced a prolonged erection or certain types of vision loss.

A practitioner can review your health history and current medications to determine whether vardenafil is appropriate and whether any adjustments are needed.

When should you speak with a healthcare practitioner?

Speak with a healthcare practitioner before starting vardenafil if you take other medications or have an existing heart, blood-pressure, kidney or liver condition.

A practitioner can review your health history, medications and other relevant factors before recommending treatment. A pharmacist can also answer questions about your prescription, potential interactions and side effects.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience an erection lasting longer than four hours, sudden vision or hearing changes, chest pain, fainting or another serious reaction.

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Frequently asked questions

What is vardenafil?

Vardenafil is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors. It is available in Canada as an oral tablet and is prescribed for adults experiencing difficulties with erections.

How does vardenafil work?

Vardenafil inhibits the PDE5 enzyme and affects the cGMP signalling pathway involved in blood flow. Sexual stimulation is still required for an erection to occur, and vardenafil does not increase sexual desire.

How long does vardenafil take to work?

The timing of vardenafil's effects can vary between individuals. Take it according to the instructions provided with your prescription. Your practitioner or pharmacist can explain when you should take your specific formulation.

What are the side effects of vardenafil?

Reported side effects include headache, facial flushing, indigestion, dizziness and nasal congestion. Vision and hearing changes can also occur. Seek immediate medical attention for serious symptoms, including an erection lasting longer than four hours.

Can vardenafil be taken with other medications?

Vardenafil can interact with certain medications. In particular, it should not be taken with nitrate medications because the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Tell your practitioner or pharmacist about everything you take before using vardenafil.