Drug guide

Vardenafil

Vardenafil (var-DEN-a-fil ) belongs to a group of medicines that delay the enzymes (proteins in your body) called phosphodiesterases from working too quickly. The penis is one of the areas where these enzymes work. Vardenafil is used to treat men who have erectile dysfunction (also called sexual impotence). Erectile dysfunction is a condition where the penis does not harden and expand when a man is sexually excited, or when he cannot keep an erection. Vardenafil may help a man get and keep an erection when he is sexually excited. Vardenafil helps to increase the blood flow to the penis and may help men with erectile dysfunction get and keep an erection satisfactory for sexual activity. Once a man has completed sexual activity, blood flow to his penis decreases, and his erection goes away. Vardenafil does not help to cure erectile dysfunction. Vardenafil is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form(s): Oral Tablets (U.S.)

Vardenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence; inability to get or keep an erection) in men. Vardenafil is in a class of medications called phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. This increased blood flow can cause an erection. Vardenafil does not cure erectile dysfunction or increase sexual desire. Vardenafil does not prevent pregnancy or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Vardenafil comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken as needed, with or without food, 60 minutes before sexual activity. Vardenafil usually should not be taken more often than once every 24 hours. If you have certain health conditions or are taking certain medications, your doctor may tell you to take Vardenafil less often. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Vardenafil exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will probably start you on an average dose of Vardenafil and increase or decrease your dose depending on your response to the medication. Tell your doctor if Vardenafil is not working well or if you are experiencing side effects.

Brand names:
- Levitra
- Vardenafil