Vardenafil

What is Vardenafil?

Vardenafil is a prescription medication for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. It is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, similar to other medications like sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis). Vardenafil is available under the brand name Levitra, among others.

How does Vardenafil work?

Vardenafil works by inhibiting the action of PDE5 enzymes, which are responsible for breaking down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). During sexual stimulation, nitric oxide (NO) is released, leading to increased levels of cGMP. Vardenafil causes the relaxation of smooth muscle cells in the blood vessels of the penis, allowing for increased blood flow and facilitating an erection. Vardenafil blocks the action of PDE5 enzymes, Vardenafil helps maintain higher levels of cGMP, promoting the dilation of blood vessels and the erectile response.

How effective is Vardenafil?

Clinical studies have shown Vardenafil to be effective in treating erectile dysfunction. Approximately 80% of the men who took Vardenafil experienced improved erections compared to 45% of those who took a placebo as cited by a study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research. Another study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that Vardenafil had a success rate of 72% in treating ED in men who had previously been unresponsive to sildenafil. However, individual responses vary, and it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate treatment.

What are the benefits of Vardenafil?

Vardenafil offers several benefits in the treatment of ED, including a relatively fast onset of action (within 30-60 minutes), a duration of effect lasting up to 5 hours, and a lower rate of specific side effects compared to other PDE5 inhibitors.

Vardenafil Dosages

Vardenafil is available in the following dosages: 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets. The recommended starting dose is 10mg, taken 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. Depending on individual response and tolerability, the dose is adjusted to a maximum of 20mg or 5mg. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage.

Vardenafil 5mg Dose

The 5mg dosage of Vardenafil is the lowest available dose. It is prescribed for men who require a lower dose due to multiple factors such as (but not limited to) age, health conditions, or potential interactions with other medications.

Vardenafil 10mg

The 10mg dosage is the recommended starting dose of Vardenafil for most men. This dose balances efficacy and tolerability, offering a good starting point for treatment.

Vardenafil 20mg

The 20mg dosage is the highest available dose of Vardenafil and is prescribed for men who have not experienced satisfactory results with lower doses. However, the higher dose also increases the risk of side effects.

How long does Vardenafil 20mg last?

Vardenafil 20mg typically has an onset of action within 30-60 minutes lasts up to 5 hours. However, the duration of effects varies depending on individual factors, such as age, metabolism, and the presence of other medications. In addition, it is essential to remember that sexual stimulation is required for Vardenafil to be effective, and the medication does not cause an erection on its own.

Can I drink alcohol with Vardenafil?

It is advised not to drink when taking Vardenafil. While consuming alcohol in moderation is unlikely to have a significant impact on the effectiveness of Vardenafil, excessive alcohol consumption causes negative effects. Drinking large amounts of alcohol exacerbates erectile dysfunction, as alcohol is a depressant that decreases blood flow to the penis, explains Dr. John Dean, a sexual health expert. Furthermore, combining alcohol with Vardenafil increase the risk of experiencing side effects, such as dizziness, headaches, or changes in blood pressure. Therefore, it is advisable to limit alcohol intake when using Vardenafil to ensure the medication works effectively and to reduce the risk of adverse effects.

Can I buy Vardenafil online?

Yes, Vardenafil is purchasable online from a reputable and licensed online pharmacy. The process typically involves completing an online consultation with a healthcare professional to assess the suitability for the medication. Once a prescription has been issued, the online pharmacy will dispense the medication and deliver it to your address. It is crucial to ensure that the online pharmacy you choose is registered with the appropriate regulatory bodies, such as the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) in the UK or the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) in the United States.

Can I buy Vardenafil from an online pharmacy?

Purchasing Vardenafil from an online pharmacy is a convenient option for many people. However, exercising caution and ensuring the online pharmacy is legitimate and licensed to dispense prescription medications is essential. Check the website's credentials and look for a registered pharmacy logo, which confirms the pharmacy meets the regulatory standards, explains Dr. Sarah Jarvis, a general practitioner and clinical director. Choosing a reputable GPhC-registered online pharmacy ensures that the Vardenafil is genuine and safe to use.

Can you buy Vardenafil over the counter?

Vardenafil is a prescription-only medication, meaning that it is not available over the counter. A consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary to determine if Vardenafil is a suitable treatment option for your erectile dysfunction. The consultation process allows the healthcare professional to assess the patient's medical history, current health conditions, and any other medications the patient is taking to ensure the safe and effective use of Vardenafil.

Is Vardenafil stronger than Viagra?

Vardenafil and Viagra (sildenafil) are both effective medications for treating erectile dysfunction, and they belong to the same class of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors. While it is difficult to definitively state that one medication is "stronger" than the other, some studies suggest that Vardenafil be more potent and selective than sildenafil.

This could potentially result in fewer side effects and interactions with other medications. However, individual responses to these medications vary, and the best choice for one person is not the same for another. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine which medication is most suitable for your specific situation.

Do you need a prescription for Vardenafil?

Yes, Vardenafil is a prescription-only medication in the UK. Being a prescription-only medication means you will need to consult with a healthcare professional to obtain a prescription before purchasing and using the medication. This consultation process ensures that Vardenafil is safe and appropriate for your specific needs, taking into account your medical history and any potential interactions with other medications.

Can you buy Vardenafil over the counter?

Vardenafil is not available over the counter, as it is a prescription-only medication. Therefore, you will need to have a consultation with a healthcare professional to obtain a prescription before purchasing Vardenafil. This process is essential to ensure the safe and appropriate use of the medication for your specific needs.

Is Vardenafil better than Viagra?

It is difficult to definitively say that one medication is better than the other, as individual responses to Vardenafil and Viagra (sildenafil) vary. Both medications effectively treat erectile dysfunction and belong to the same class of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors. Some studies suggest that Vardenafil is more potent and selective than sildenafil, which could result in fewer side effects and interactions with other medications. However, the best choice of medication for one person is not the same for another. A healthcare professional can help you determine the most suitable medication for your situation.

Why was Levitra discontinued?

Levitra, a brand name for Vardenafil, has not been discontinued as a whole. However, the availability of Levitra may vary depending on the country or specific pharmaceutical manufacturer. In addition, certain formulations or dosages may sometimes be discontinued due to factors such as demand or market competition. Vardenafil, as a generic medication, is still available and continues to be prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. If you have concerns about the availability of Levitra or other vardenafil-based medications, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss alternative treatment options.