From the FDA Drug Label
7.1 Drugs Having Clinically Important Interactions with Aripiprazole Table 25: Clinically Important Drug Interactions with Aripiprazole: Concomitant Drug Name or Drug Class Clinical Rationale Clinical Recommendation ... 7. 2 Drugs Having No Clinically Important Interactions with Aripiprazole Based on pharmacokinetic studies, no dosage adjustment of aripiprazole is required when administered concomitantly with ... or CYP3A4 (e.g., dextromethorphan) when co-administered with aripiprazole.
Vardenafil is a CYP3A4 substrate. However, the label does not explicitly mention vardenafil as a drug that has a clinically important interaction with aripiprazole.
- The label mentions that no dosage adjustment is necessary for substrates of CYP3A4 (e.g., dextromethorphan) when co-administered with aripiprazole.
- Since vardenafil is not explicitly mentioned, it is unclear if it can be taken with aripiprazole without any interactions.
- To be cautious, it is recommended to monitor for any potential interactions when taking vardenafil with aripiprazole 1.
From the Research
Taking vardenafil with aripiprazole is generally considered safe, but it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before combining these medications, especially if you have underlying health conditions. The primary concern with this combination is the potential for increased risk of dizziness or lightheadedness due to the effects of both medications on blood pressure. Vardenafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, can cause a decrease in blood pressure, while aripiprazole, an antipsychotic medication, may cause orthostatic hypotension in some patients 2. Additionally, both medications can occasionally cause QT interval prolongation, an electrical disturbance in the heart, which warrants caution in patients with pre-existing heart conditions or those taking other medications that affect heart rhythm 3. It's essential to take these medications exactly as directed, report any unusual side effects to your doctor promptly, and ensure all your healthcare providers are aware of all medications you're taking. The most recent and highest quality study on the efficacy and safety of PDE5 inhibitors, including vardenafil, suggests that these medications are effective and generally well-tolerated in men with erectile dysfunction, with common side effects including headache, flushing, and dyspepsia 4. However, the specific interaction between vardenafil and aripiprazole is not well-studied, and therefore, caution and close monitoring are advised when combining these medications. In general, PDE5 inhibitors like vardenafil have been shown to be safe in combination with many antihypertensive drugs, but caution is needed in patients on alpha-blocking agents or those with underlying cardiovascular disease 5. Given the potential risks and benefits, it's essential to weigh the individual patient's health status and medical history before initiating this combination therapy.