From the Guidelines
Levitra, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, is a recommended treatment option for erectile dysfunction (ED) in men, with a typical starting dose of 10 mg taken orally about 60 minutes before sexual activity, as supported by the American Urological Association guideline from 2018 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The medication works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, helping to achieve and maintain an erection.
- Depending on effectiveness and tolerability, the dose may be adjusted to 5 mg or 20 mg, with the goal of maximizing benefit while minimizing adverse effects 1.
- Levitra should not be taken with nitrate medications as this combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure, a critical consideration for patient safety.
- Common side effects include headache, flushing, stuffy nose, indigestion, and dizziness, which are generally dose-dependent and should be discussed with patients to manage expectations and improve adherence.
- The choice of a specific PDE5 inhibitor, such as Levitra, should be based on individual patient preferences, including ease of use, cost of medication, and adverse effects profile, as recommended by the American College of Physicians in 2009 1.
Clinical Considerations
- Patients with certain heart conditions, liver problems, or those taking specific medications should consult their healthcare provider before using Levitra to ensure it's safe for them, highlighting the need for personalized care.
- The medication works only in the presence of sexual stimulation and does not increase sexual desire, an important point to discuss with patients to set realistic expectations.
- Given the similar efficacy of different PDE5 inhibitors in the general ED population, as noted in the 2018 guideline from the American Urological Association 1, the selection of Levitra should be guided by patient-specific factors and clinical judgment.
From the FDA Drug Label
LEVITRA is indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. The drug LEVITRA is indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction 2.
From the Research
Overview of Levitra (Vardenafil)
- Vardenafil is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) 3, 4, 5.
- It has a similar molecular structure to sildenafil, but its pharmacokinetic profile is distinct from that of tadalafil 3.
Efficacy and Safety
- Vardenafil has been shown to be effective in treating ED, with a success rate comparable to that of sildenafil and tadalafil 3, 4.
- The drug has a similar adverse effect profile to other PDE5 inhibitors, with common side effects including headache, flushing, and dyspepsia 6, 5.
- Vardenafil has a half-life of approximately 4 hours, which is shorter than that of tadalafil 3.
Comparison to Other PDE5 Inhibitors
- Vardenafil has a faster onset of action compared to tadalafil, with 21% of patients achieving an erection within 10 minutes 3.
- Unlike sildenafil and vardenafil, tadalafil is not affected by food intake, particularly fatty foods 3.
- The choice of PDE5 inhibitor may depend on patient preference and individual factors, such as the presence of certain medical conditions or concomitant medications 3, 6.
Clinical Use
- Vardenafil is available in various formulations, including tablets and orodispersible tablets (ODTs) 6.
- The ODT formulation offers a convenient alternative to traditional tablets and may improve treatment adherence 6.
- Vardenafil is considered a safe and effective treatment option for ED, with a low risk of serious adverse effects 4, 5.