What Is Vardenafil HCL?

Vardenafil HCL is a prescription drug used to treat men with erectile dysfunction or impotence. Erectile dysfunction is common among men, especially older men. About half of all men older than 40 years experience the condition at least occasionally. It can caused by many conditions, including medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure and psychological conditions such as depression and stress. Vardenafil is a commonly used treatment in men with erectile dysfunction. Vardenafil is a generic drug. Its brand-name equivalent is Levitra.

How It Works

Vardenafil HCL is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that increases blood flow to the penis when sexually stimulated. When this happens, it is easier for a man to get and maintain an erection.

How To Take It

Vardenafil HCL is taken orally in pill form. It should be taken about an hour before engaging in sexual activity. It is not safe to take Vardenafil more than once a day.

Side Effects

Known side effects of Vardenafil HCL include heartburn, runny or stuffy nose, dizziness, headache, flushing and upset stomach. None of these is cause for concern. In rare cases, men taking Vardenafil might experience some side effects that could indicate a potential problem. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following: sudden hearing loss, vision loss or severe or persistent vision changes, chest pain, back or muscle pain, a prolonged or painful erection, a fast, slow or irregular heartbeat, ringing in the ears, severe or persistent dizziness and memory loss.

Warnings

Vardenafil may not be safe for all men, including those with medical conditions related to the penis, cancers of the blood system, sickle cell anemia, certain eye conditions, liver or kidney disease, stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders and those who have recently had a stroke or heart condition. Vardenafil can also cause a problem with heart rhythm that requires immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Several medicines are known to interact with Vardenafil or increase the likelihood of suffering side effects. People who take the medicine with alpha-blockers, high-blood pressure drugs, nitrate or nitroprusside are more likely to develop severely low blood pressure.