What is Levitra®?

Levitra® is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction. The pharmaceutical name of the drug is vardenafil, and it is co-produced by three drug companies, Bayer, GlaxoSmithKline, and Schering-Plough. It functions by encouraging the flow of blood to the penis, which stimulates the organ, produces erections, and increases sexual stamina.

Men with impotence and other types of erectile dysfunction have degraded smooth muscle cells on the walls of the blood vessels lining the penis's erectile tissue. This is caused by the action of a group of enzymes called phosphodiesterase. Levitra® serves to block the degrading actions of these enzymes, thus promoting the healthier flow of blood to the region.

This type of erectile dysfunction medication is typically taken one hour before sexual activity commences. The time frame allows the drug to be absorbed into the system and target the penile area. Experts advise that users should not take the drug more than once per day.

Levitra® is available in four different dosages: 2.5 milligrams, 5 milligrams, 10 milligrams, and 20 milligrams. Most patients are prescribed the 10 milligram dosage. The round tablets are orange in color and covered with a thin film. The manufacturer name "Bayer" is engraved on one side of the pill.

Research has shown that Levitra® can cause several potential side effects. Headache, nausea, flushed skin, and heartburn are among the most commonly seen effects of this impotence medication. There are also a few possible serious side effects, which include long-term erections — erections lasting more than four hours — vision problems, dizziness, and hearing loss. Consuming alcohol, grapefruit juice, or other grapefruit products could possibly interact with Levitra® and support the development of more critical side effects.

Levitra® is not meant to be taken on a regular basis — only in those instances when sexual activity is about to occur. The body does not require a steady supply of the drug for it to work. Taken about 60 minutes before sex, the drug is fast-acting and results are experienced rather quickly. The pill may be taken on a full or empty stomach and should be consumed with a full glass of water.

This medication may also be prescribed for premature ejaculation. While it is more commonly utilized to develop and sustain an erection, a small number of individuals are given the drug to prolong the time between penetration and ejaculation. It is thought that that phosphodiesterase-blocking capabilities of Levitra® also work to prevent hasty completion of the sexual act.