Levitra 20 mg

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Akansha Kaushal

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Dr. Akansha Kaushal

Clinical Pharmacologist and Drug Safety Expert

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Written by Julian Carter

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Julian Carter

MBA in Pharmaceutical Management

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What is Levitra 20 mg

Levitra is an Erectile Dysfunction (ED) medication used for male impotence therapy. Its composition includes Vardenafil, which is an FDA-approved salt under the brand name Levitra. The salt basically enables an erection by boosting blood flow into the penis. This boost is triggered by promoting the widening of blood vessels. 

Bayer Pharmaceuticals is the manufacturer of the product, and now the active ingredient is available as a generic medicine.

Uses of Levitra 20 mg

Levitra is a prescription ED drug used for male impotence therapy. It enables satisfactory erection in men having complications in maintaining or achieving it for sexual activity. 

In a few studies, the active salt, Vardenafil, has shown moderate efficacy for treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). Some scholarly articles also stated some efficacy in treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).

But, it is to be considered that ED is the only FDA-approved use of this medication. 

Working and benefits of Vardenafil

Vardenafil tablets suppress an enzyme called PDE5 (Phosphodiesterase type 5). This enzyme's main role is to break cGMP, a molecule responsible for blood flow regulation in the penis. By blocking PDE5, high cGMP levels are maintained, which relaxes smooth muscle in the penis. Relaxation results in widening of the blood vessels, which, in turn, improves blood flow into the penis. 

Note that this medication can not generate an erection if the user is not sexually stimulated. Its mode of action is to promote the natural process of erection when sexually stimulated.

Levitra 20 mg benefits include:

• Vardenafil works well with food intake and reduces side effects in comparison to other PDE5 inhibitors.

• Effectively treats ED by significantly enhancing the ability to achieve and then maintain a strong erection for a duration sufficient for sexual activity.

• Its onset of action is very quick, 30-60 minutes. The duration of effect lasts up to 5 to 6 hours.

• Improves quality of life and sexual confidence in men with erectile complications. 

Dosage and how to take Levitra 20 mg

The general dosage guideline directs taking Vardenafil orally 1 hour before sexual activity. Take it with food in case it upsets your stomach. Avoid taking more than 1 tablet a day. Individuals aged 65 or older may initially be prescribed a lower dose, like 5 mg. 

Directions for taking PDE5 inhibitor medicine:

• Take the tablet with a glass of water.

• It works more effectively on an empty stomach. 

• Try avoiding heavy meals as they can delay action.

• Medicines for Erectile Dysfunction can not start functioning until the user is sexually stimulated.

Avoid overdosing and consult a doctor in case of prolonged or painful erections. 

Strengths and substitutes

The strengths and substitutes available for the Levitra 20 mg tablet at GoodRxMedicine are:    

View all substitutes

Side effects

Here are the side effects of Levitra 20 mg:

• Headache

• Back ache

• Nausea

• Stuffy nose

• Stomach discomfort

• Flushing

These effects are common and temporary. If you experience rare side effects like low blood pressure, painful erection, or sudden vision loss, consult a doctor immediately.

Interactions

Levitra can interact with other medications, health conditions, and food and drink preferences. 

Drug interactions 

Levitra 20 mg tablet can have significant interactions with the following drugs:

• Alpha-Blockers: Users should be cautious, as medicines like Terazosin or Tamsulosin can cause dizziness by lowering blood pressure.

• Nitrates: Nitrates like Isosorbide or Nitroglycerin can trigger severe hypotension when used in combination with Vardenafil.

• CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Ritonavir, Ketoconazole, Erythromycin, or Itraconazole can cause toxicity by elevating Vardenafil levels.     

Disease interactions

Vardenafil tablets can have some unwanted effects if taken while dealing with certain health conditions. These conditions include: 

• Individuals with Phenylketonuria (a condition in which the body can't break down the amino acid phenylalanine, which can cause intellectual disability) should inform a doctor first, as phenylalanine is found in Vardenafil pills.

• Avoid in case of severe cardiovascular diseases.

• Avoid with NAION (Non-Arteritic Ischemic Optic Neuropathy or vision loss). 

Food interactions

Avoid grapefruit juice as it can increase medication levels in the blood. Moderate alcohol consumption is usually safe; consult a medical professional for excessive intake.  

Precautions

The following precautions must be considered before taking oral erection pills:

• Avoid taking the medicine if you are allergic to Vardenafil.

• If you experience chest pain, abrupt vision loss, or severe dizziness, discontinue the medication and immediately visit a doctor.

• If you observe a rare side effect like Priapism (prolonged erection), quickly consult a healthcare professional.

• Avoid use if you have Retinitis Pigmentosa (a genetic eye disorder).

• This medication is strictly formulated for men with erection issues. Therefore, breastfeeding and pregnant women should avoid it.

Why buy from us

When you buy Levitra 20 mg online from GoodRxMedicine, you get the following facilities:

• Genuine product and reliable quality

• Quick delivery with discreet packaging

• Our customer support will assist you with any concerns 24*7

• Competitive pricing