 Vardenafil relaxes muscles within the penis. This allows increased blood flow into the penis which is necessary to achieve and maintain an erection.
Vardenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence).
Vardenafil may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Special precautions
Before taking vardenafil, tell your doctor if you
- Have a physical deformity of the penis such as Peyronie's disease.
- a family history of degenerative eye disease (e.g., retinitis pigmentosa); or
- have a stomach ulcer;
- have a bleeding or blood clotting disorder;
- have ever had blood problems, multiple myeloma, including sickle cell anemia, or leukemia;
- have kidney problems;
- have liver problems;
- have a personal or family history of a rare heart condition known as prolongation of the QT interval (long QT syndrome);
- have high or low blood pressure;
- currently have or have ever had a heart attack, angina (chest pain), irregular heartbeats, stroke, or congestive heart failure;
* You may not be able to take vardenafil, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
* Although vardenafil is not indicated for use by women, it is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that vardenafil is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Vardenafil should not be taken by women.
* It is not known whether vardenafil passes into breast milk. Vardenafil should not be taken by women.
* If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from vardenafil. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of the medication.
Side effects
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking vardenafil and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
- back pain
- dizziness, nausea, or angina (pain, tightness, discomfort, numbness, or tingling in the chest, arms, neck, or jaw); or
- a prolonged (lasting longer than 4 hours) or painful erection;
- fainting;
- prolonged or severe dizziness;
- shortness of breath;
- swelling of the ankles or legs;
- chest pain or an irregular heartbeats;
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; closing of the throat; or hives)
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take vardenafil and talk to your doctor if you experience
- temporary blue tint in vision or other vision abnormalities
- sensitivity of the eyes to light; or
- stomach upset;
- nasal congestion;
- headache;
- mild dizziness;
- flushing;
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
Keep all appointment with your doctor.
Don’t let anyone else take your medicines.
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