Levitra Contraindications and Side Effects
Levitra (vardenafil) is a new generation drug that is used for treatment of impotence. It is produced by Bayer Corporation, Germany and distributed by GlaxoSmithKline. The drug is intended for oral administration, and it requires a written prescription. Vardenafil's action consists in the inhibition of the phosphodiestrase type 5 (PDE-5) by stimulating synthesis of cyclic guanosine monophosphate - a natural enzyme that relaxes smooth muscle in the corpus cavernosum and thus facilitates blood flow to the penis.
Levitra is a prescription drug, which should only be administered under the direction of a qualified physician. Although it is less adverse than Viagra in terms of side effects, it is not always advisable to use it. Needless to say, using vardenafil without a doctor's consultation is absolutely inadmissible.
The drug bears a direct influence on the functioning of man's cardiovascular system and therefore it is not recommended for people suffering from heart problems, such as ventricular outflow obstruction, tachycardia, heart insufficiency, arrhythmia, etc. Levitra also affects blood pressure and may cause it to drop dramatically in some patients. This is most likely to occur if you use the drug in combination with other medications (nitrates, alpha blockers, or other sexual stimulants). People sensitive to Levitra or any of its ingredients, should not use it either. Vardenafil is metabolized in the liver, mostly by aid of CYP3A4, a natural enzyme; therefore, it may not be for those who suffer hepatic insufficiency. Simultaneous use of Levitra and CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as itraconazole, ketoconazole, ritonavir, etc., may result in a drastic increase of the drug's amount in the blood. People experiencing moderate or severe cases of renal insufficiency should also abstain from using this medication. In some cases, Levitra therapy is accompanied by vision problems. On rare occasions, vardenafil leads to prolonged erections lasting more than 4 hours, which is fraught with a serious injury.
In most cases, side effects appear about an hour after the drug is taken and wear off several hours later. If you have any of the aforementioned side effects, turn to your healthcare provider. According to how severe the effects are, he or she will help you determine the dosage. In order to minimize the risk of undesirable effects, it is recommended to start with small doses of the medicine.