Drug Name: Levitra/ Vardenafil

Drug Uses:
Used to treat erectile dysfunction.

Method of use:
Levitra is to be taken one hour prior to sexual activity. However, some kind of sexual stimulation is necessary to attain an erection. The drug is to be taken only once in twenty four hours, as and when needed.

Benefits:

When compared with Viagra, Levitra has a better performance record and lesser number of side effects. Levitra is effective within 16 minutes of taking the pill; Viagra takes more time to be effective. Unlike Viagra that needs to be taken on an empty stomach, Levitra can be taken along with food. Besides, there are no limitations as to intake of food or alcohol. In clinical trials, the effect of Levitra lasted longer than Viagra; it is effective for up to six hours. With Levitra, there are fewer adverse effects on the heart or the vision. However, it is recommended to take the pill 25 to 45 minutes before sex.

Drug Class and Working:
Levitra is classified as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, which induces the blood flow in the penis to attain and retain an erection.

Missed Dosage:
Since Levitra is to be used as required, there is no fixed timing to take the drug. However it can only be taken once a day.

Storage Instructions:
Levitra must be stored at 25° C/77°F, deviations permitted up to 15-30°C (59-86°F). As with all other medicines, Levitra must be kept out of reach of children and must be protected from heat and moisture.

Precautions and Advice

If any of the following conditions apply to you, do not take Levitra:

• Allergy to any ingredient in Levitra.
• If you have been prescribed nitroglycerin patches, ointment and tablets, or you take isosorbides or certain antiarrhythmics such as amiodarone or quinidine.
• If you have suffered a stroke, heart attack or have experienced irregular heart beats in the past six months.
• If you have eye disorders like as retinitis pigmentosa or uncontrolled high blood pressure, low blood pressure, chest pain, severe liver problems, kidney problems requiring dialysis or congenital QT prolongation.

The drug is available under the brand name Levitra and can be obtained with a doctor's prescription. It may also be available under other generic names. Get as much information about the medication as possible, especially from your doctor before you begin to take it.

Side Effects

If you experience any of the following symptoms on taking Levitra, seek urgent medical attention. Of course, you must immediately stop taking the drug.

• A sudden loss of vision.
• Sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears.
• General ill-feeling, chest pain, nausea, sweating or pain spreading to the arms or shoulders.
• Irregularity of heartbeats.
• Shortness of breath.
• Swelling in the hands, ankles or the feet.
• Changes in vision.
• Fainting or feeling light-headed.
• A painful erection or one lasting more than 4 hours.

Some other non-serious symptoms may include a stuffy nose, warmth or redness in the face, neck or chest, headaches, upset stomach or a backache. This is not the entire list; hence, you may encounter other worrisome indications. Be sure to inform your physician if you find any abnormal side effect of the drug.