Vardenafil: instructions, use, reviews, price and analogues (Levitra, generics)
Vardenafil is an active ingredient in drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men, the most famous of which is Levitra . Due to its mechanism of action, vardenafil helps to achieve and maintain a stable erection necessary for full sexual intercourse. In this text, we will consider vardenafil in detail , its properties, indications for use, contraindications, possible side effects, interaction with other drugs, and also compare the original drug and generics.
Vardenafil tablets what is it?
Vardenafil is a drug that belongs to a group of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It is a selective inhibitor, meaning it acts primarily on PDE5, an enzyme that plays a key role in regulating blood flow in the penis.
The mechanism of action of vardenafil is as follows:
- Sexual arousal: During sexual arousal, nitric oxide (NO) is released in a man’s body.
- Activation of cGMP: NO activates the enzyme guanylate cyclase, resulting in increased levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).
- Muscle relaxation: cGMP causes relaxation of the smooth muscles of the corpora cavernosa of the penis.
- Increased blood flow: Relaxed muscles allow blood to flow freely into the corpora cavernosa, causing an erection.
- PDE5 Blocking: Vardenafil blocks the PDE5 enzyme, which breaks down cGMP. This leads to increased cGMP levels in the corpora cavernosa and increased erection.
Vardenafil is not an aphrodisiac and does not cause sexual desire. The drug only works with sexual stimulation.
What is the composition of Vardenafil?
The main active ingredient in vardenafil-based drugs is vardenafil itself (usually in the form of vardenafil hydrochloride trihydrate).
In addition to the active ingredient, the tablets contain auxiliary substances, the composition of which may differ slightly depending on the manufacturer and form of release, but usually includes:
- Crosspovedon
- Magnesium stearate
- Microcrystalline cellulose
- Silicon dioxide colloidal anhydrous
- Film-coating components (eg, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, macrogol, dyes)
The exact composition of a specific drug vardenafil should be clarified in the instructions attached to it.
Who is the manufacturer of Vardenafil and what is a generic?
The original drug vardenafil, known under the trade name Levitra , is produced by the German pharmaceutical company Bayer .
After the patent for vardenafil expired, other pharmaceutical companies were given the right to produce their own versions of the drug, called generics . Generics contain the same active ingredient (vardenafil) and are just as effective as the original Levitra, but are usually much cheaper.
Popular generics of vardenafil include:
- Vilitra (Centurion Laboratories)
- Zhewitra (Sunrise products)
- Lavitra (Delta Enterprises)
- Vitara (Signature)
When choosing a generic, it is important to pay attention to the manufacturer’s reputation and the availability of quality certificates confirming compliance with international GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards.
Why take Vardenafil?
Vardenafil is indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men aged 18 years and over. Erectile dysfunction is characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse.
Vardenafil may be effective for ED of various origins, including:
- Organic ED: caused by vascular diseases (atherosclerosis, hypertension), diabetes, neurological disorders (multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries), hormonal disorders.
- Psychogenic ED: caused by stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems.
- Mixed ED: a combination of organic and psychogenic factors.
Vardenafil helps:
- Achieve a strong erection sufficient for full sexual intercourse.
- Maintain an erection throughout intercourse.
- Improve the quality of your sex life and regain your self-confidence.
- Provide rapid onset of action.
How to take vardenafil?
Vardenafil is taken orally with water approximately 25-60 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. The recommended starting dose is 10 mg. Depending on individual efficacy and tolerability, the dose may be increased to 20 mg or decreased to 5 mg.
Important recommendations:
- Vardenafil only works when sexually aroused.
- It is not recommended to take more than one dose of vardenafil per day.
- The maximum daily dose is 20 mg.
- Eating fatty foods may delay the onset of action of the drug.
- The effect of taking Vardenafil lasts on average 4-5 hours.
- Alcohol may increase side effects and reduce the effectiveness of the drug.
What are the contraindications for Vardenafil?
Vardenafil has a number of contraindications, so before starting to take it, you should consult a doctor. The drug is not recommended in the following cases:
- Hypersensitivity to vardenafil or any other component of the drug.
- Concomitant use with nitrates (drugs used to treat angina) or nitric oxide donors in any form.
- Severe cardiovascular diseases (unstable angina, severe heart failure, recent myocardial infarction or stroke).
- Severe liver failure.
- Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 ml/min).
- Hereditary degenerative diseases of the retina (eg, retinitis pigmentosa).
- Age up to 18 years.
- Concomitant use with other drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Does Vardenafil have any side effects?
Vardenafil is generally well tolerated. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects. The most common side effects are:
- Headache.
- Redness of the face.
- Dyspepsia (upset stomach).
- Nasal congestion.
- Dizziness.
These side effects are usually mild and temporary and disappear on their own within a few hours. If side effects are severe or do not disappear over a long period of time, you should stop taking the medicine and consult a doctor.
Can Vardenafil be taken with other medications?
Before you start taking vardenafil, be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
Vardenafil is strictly contraindicated for use simultaneously with nitrates (eg, nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate) and nitric oxide donors, as this can lead to a dangerous decrease in blood pressure.
The drug should be taken with caution with alpha-blockers (drugs used to treat hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia), since the hypotensive effect may be enhanced.
Some other drugs, such as CYP3A4 inhibitors (eg, ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, ritonavir) may increase the blood concentration of vardenafil.
Who is recommended to buy Vardenafil in the USA?
Vardenafil is recommended for men aged 18 years and older who:
- They suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED) of varying severity and different etiology.
- They want to improve the quality of their sex life and regain their confidence.
- They are looking for an effective and safe drug for the treatment of ED with proven effectiveness.
- They prefer a drug with a rapid onset of action.
Vardenafil can be purchased in the USA (both the original Levitra and its generics) in pharmacies with a doctor’s prescription or in online pharmacies specializing in the sale of drugs for the treatment of ED. When choosing a generic, it is important to pay attention to the manufacturer’s reputation and the availability of quality certificates.
Remember! Self-medication can be harmful to your health. Before you start taking vardenafil or its generics, be sure to consult your doctor. He will help determine whether this drug is right for you, rule out contraindications, and select the optimal dosage.
Vardenafil is an effective and safe drug that helps men overcome erectile dysfunction and restore the joy of a full sexual life!