Levitra (vardenafil) treats erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. It usually starts working in 25 to 60 minutes and commonly lasts around four to five hours, though individual response varies. You take Levitra as needed before sex, not daily, unless your doctor says otherwise.
Typical dosing starts at 10 mg taken about an hour before activity. Doctors may lower it to 5 mg or raise it to 20 mg based on effect and side effects. Take no more than one dose in 24 hours. Never combine Levitra with nitrates for chest pain or nitric oxide donors — that mix can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Tell your prescriber about heart disease, recent stroke, liver or kidney problems, and any other medicines you take.
Side effects are mostly mild: headache, flushing, nasal congestion, upset stomach, and dizziness. Seek urgent care if you get sudden vision loss, hearing loss, severe chest pain, or an erection lasting more than four hours. These are rare but serious events. Keep your medical team informed about any unusual reactions.
Drug interactions matter. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole, itraconazole, and some HIV protease inhibitors raise vardenafil levels and may increase side effects. Certain antibiotics and grapefruit products can also interfere. Alcohol in large amounts reduces effectiveness and raises the chance of lightheadedness. Ask a pharmacist for a quick interaction check if you start or stop other medications.
Buying Levitra online requires caution. Use only pharmacies that ask for a valid prescription, display a physical address, and show third-party verification like a pharmacy license or seal from regulatory bodies. Avoid sites offering brand-name drugs with no prescription or huge discounts — counterfeit pills are common and can contain harmful ingredients or no active drug at all. If price is the problem, ask about generic vardenafil, compare licensed pharmacies, and look for manufacturer coupons or pharmacy discount cards.
Practical tips for first use: try Levitra at home first to understand timing and side effects. Take it with a light meal; heavy or fatty meals can delay absorption. If you plan travel, pack original packaging, keep medicines in a cool dry place, and carry your prescription or a copy in case airport security questions it. Dispose of expired pills safely and never share prescription drugs.
Alternatives include sildenafil and tadalafil; sildenafil works similarly and tadalafil lasts much longer, up to 36 hours. Non-drug approaches like counseling for anxiety, pelvic floor exercises, weight loss, improved sleep, and quitting smoking often help and sometimes make medications work better. Talk openly with your doctor about goals, costs, and safety so you get the right option for you.
Final checklist before buying: confirm a prescription is required, verify the pharmacy, check interaction warnings, compare prices, and read shipping and privacy policies. If anything looks off, stop and ask a healthcare professional. Safe choices protect your health and help you save money today easily.
Discover the top 6 alternatives to Viagra for treating erectile dysfunction, including Cialis, Levitra, and Spedra. This article provides a detailed comparison of each option, highlighting their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.