Ocular side effects of levitra® (vardenafil) – results of a double-blind crossover study in healthy male subjects
Vardenafil and Cialis can be taken with or without food, as indicated on their drug labels. However, the absorption of Levitra may be affected by a high-fat meal, while Cialis remains largely unaffected by food intake.
Conditions treated by Levitra and Viagra
Vardenafil and Cialis are two different drugs. Cialis is a brand-name drug containing the active ingredient tadalafil, while vardenafil is a generic drug and the active ingredient in the now-discontinued brand-name drug Levitra. Vardenafil can take up to an hour to start working. Once it kicks in, its effects can last 5 to 7 hours, and in some cases, effects can last up to 12 hours. On the other hand, Cialis typically starts working faster, within 20 to 30 minutes, and its effects can last much longer—up to 36 hours. Vardenafil and Cialis are both FDA-approved to treat ED. This sexual disorder is diagnosed after a medical evaluation by a healthcare provider. ED can be caused by both psychological problems and physical health issues that cause a persistent inability to get or keep an erection. While PDE5 inhibitors have been studied to improve benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), Cialis is the only one that is FDA-approved to treat it.
| Product | Dosage | Quantity + Bonus | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levitra Professional | 20mg | 180 + 4 Pills | 502.31€ 478.39€ | |
| Levitra Professional | 20mg | 10 Pills | 62.37€ 59.40€ | |
| Levitra Generic | 40mg | 90 + 6 Pills | 234.73€ 223.55€ | |
| Levitra Original | 20mg | 120 + 8 Pills | 528.19€ 503.04€ | |
| Levitra Original | 20mg | 12 Pills | 81.99€ 78.09€ | |
| Levitra Generic | 20mg | 270 + 10 Pills | 376.33€ 358.41€ | |
| Levitra Soft Tabs | 20mg | 20 Pills | 74.68€ 71.12€ | |
| Levitra Soft Tabs | 20mg | 270 + 10 Pills | 521.78€ 496.93€ | |
| Levitra Generic | 60mg | 270 + 10 Pills | 714.53€ 680.50€ | |
| Levitra Original | 20mg | 22 + 2 Pills | 138.55€ 131.95€ | |
| Levitra Generic | 20mg | 90 + 8 Pills | 180.78€ 172.17€ | |
| Levitra Professional | 20mg | 270 + 6 Pills | 738.98€ 703.79€ | |
| Levitra Generic | 40mg | 20 Pills | 67.56€ 64.34€ | |
| Levitra Professional | 20mg | 20 Pills | 101.00€ 96.19€ | |
| Levitra Generic | 20mg | 20 Pills | 52.63€ 50.12€ |
BPH is a medical condition characterized by an enlarged prostate.
- Levitra's approval has expanded options for men seeking ED treatment.
- It is one of several PDE5 inhibitors designed for erectile enhancement.
- Men should consider potential side effects and interactions before use.
- Levitra can be taken on an as-needed basis, not necessarily daily.
- Proper diagnosis of ED involves a thorough medical examination.
- Persistent ED can be a sign of underlying health issues needing attention.
- Levitra’s pharmacokinetics allow for flexibility in planning for intimacy.
- Always follow prescribed instructions to maximize safety and effectiveness.
It can cause symptoms like an increased need to urinate, difficulty urinating, and an inability to fully empty the bladder. Off-label uses of Levitra and Cialis include treating Raynaud’s phenomenon and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
| Instruction | Details |
|---|---|
| Take on an empty stomach or with food | Food may delay onset |
| Alcohol consumption | Limit intake for best results |
| Avoid sudden position changes | To reduce dizziness and hypotension |
| Do not exceed prescribed dose | To prevent adverse effects |
Raynaud’s phenomenon is a rare condition in which the fingers or toes can become discolored or numb due to cold temperature changes. PAH is another rare disorder caused by high blood pressure in the lungs and can lead to shortness of breath and chest pain. The active ingredients of Levitra and Cialis have also been shown to prevent and improve altitude sickness.
What are the main differences between Levitra and Viagra?
The safety and efficacy of Levitra in these individuals have not been established. Discuss all your medical conditions, past and present, with your doctor or pharmacist before starting Levitra. This is crucial because certain conditions can affect whether Levitra is right for you. • Dehydration: Dehydration can increase the risk of side effects with Levitra. Stay well-hydrated, especially if you are physically active or in hot weather.
Drug Interactions
• Low blood pressure (hypotension): If you have low blood pressure, Levitra may further lower it, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. • High blood pressure (hypertension): While Levitra is sometimes used to treat erectile dysfunction in men with controlled high blood pressure, it's essential to monitor blood pressure closely. • Kidney or liver problems: If you have kidney or liver problems, your doctor may need to adjust your dose of Levitra. • Peptic ulcers or bleeding disorders: Levitra should be used with caution if you have a history of peptic ulcers or bleeding disorders, as it may increase the risk of bleeding. Other medications that can interact with Levitra include, but are not limited to: • PDE5 inhibitors: Such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), or avanafil (Stendra). These drugs may be useful for climbers who are at risk of experiencing high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), a condition caused by fluid leakage in the lungs. This condition can be fatal if it’s not treated in a timely manner. When taken as prescribed, vardenafil and Cialis can be effective ED treatments. However, Cialis may be preferred for its once-daily dosing option, longer duration of action, and approved use for BPH. According to a meta-analysis, tadalafil was found to be the most effective agent for ED, followed by vardenafil.
- Levitra has been shown to enhance erectile function in clinical studies.
- It is not classified as a controlled substance but still requires caution.
- Side effects usually diminish after the body adjusts to the medication.
- Patients should inform their doctor of all health issues before starting Levitra.
- In some cases, Levitra may be used temporarily or as needed.
- Regular blood pressure monitoring is recommended when using Levitra.
- Levitra should be stored safely away from children and pets.
- Discuss all medication options with a healthcare provider to find the best treatment.
This meta-analysis included 118 different trials and compared seven different medications. All PDE5 inhibitors in the studies were found to have similar safety profiles.
More about Levitra (vardenafil)
Common side effects for both include headaches, nasal congestion, and flushing, while rare but serious side effects include changes in vision or hearing. Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a temporary or long-term problem for many men. Around 24% of men in the United States have ED, with the prevalence increasing for older men. Due to the stigma surrounding this common sexual disorder, the percentage of men with ED may be underreported. However, in today’s world, ED treatment is more accessible, with several options available. However, one study found that sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, may be the most effective PDE5 inhibitor for ED in the general population. The study noted that while PDE5 inhibitors are generally effective and safe compared to a placebo, more high-quality studies that directly compare these medications are needed. Levitra or Cialis may be more effective, depending on your preferences and other health conditions.
What is Levitra?
The most commonly prescribed ED medications belong to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitors. Levitra and Cialis are two PDE5 inhibitors that primarily work by increasing blood flow to get and maintain an erection. While brand-name Levitra was discontinued in 2018, the generic version, vardenafil, remains available. Although these drugs work in similar ways, they do have some differences to be aware of when choosing the best treatment option. Your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes as well as a medication like vardenafil or Cialis to help improve your sex life. Your healthcare provider can help you decide which ED medication is best for you. Most Medicare and commercial insurance plans don’t generally cover ED pills like vardenafil and Cialis. Therefore, you may have to pay out of pocket for these medications. Some health insurance plans may be more likely to cover Cialis if it’s prescribed for BPH. Still, you may want to contact your pharmacist or insurance company directly about insurance coverage for ED drugs. Vardenafil is a generic medication that may be cheaper than brand-name alternatives. The average retail price may be around $479 for 10 tablets with a strength of 20 mg.
- Levitra was one of the first medications introduced for erectile dysfunction.
- Its mechanism involves relaxation of smooth muscle in penile tissue.
- Men should avoid taking Levitra with heavy meals to ensure rapid action.
- The medication’s safety profile is well-documented in scientific literature.
- Levitra may be prescribed alongside other therapies for ED management.
- Regular medical check-ups are recommended during treatment.
- Patients should be aware of potential drug interactions with Levitra.
- Avoid combining Levitra with recreational drugs, especially stimulants.
Cialis is available as a brand-name and generic drug.
- Levitra is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction in men.
- The active ingredient in Levitra is vardenafil.
- Levitra helps increase blood flow to the penis during sexual activity.
- It is usually taken 25 to 60 minutes before sexual activity.
- The typical starting dose is 10 mg, adjustable based on effectiveness and side effects.
- Levitra should not be used more than once a day.
- Common side effects include headache, flushing, and nasal congestion.
- Levitra is contraindicated with nitrates and certain heart medications.
For 30 tablets with a strength of 5 mg, the average retail price of generic Cialis is around $448. If you’re looking to save on the retail cost of vardenafil or Cialis, you may want to use a SingleCare savings card.
Frequently asked questions about Levitra vs. Cialis
For complete information about potential drug interactions, visit the product monograph webpage: and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. Is There A Connection Between Sexual Dysfunction and Gut Microbiota？ A History of Male Sexual Performance Enhancements The information on this page is sourced from independent third parties contracted by CanadaPharmacyOnline. While we cannot guarantee its medical accuracy, we strongly recommend consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding medications or medical conditions. Prescriptions Dispensed from Canada are Dispensed by Candrug Pharmacy #18985. 202A 8322-130th Street, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada V3W 8J9, 604-543-8711.
Mild side effects
This pharmacy is duly licensed in the province of British Columbia, Canada by the College of Pharmacists of BC. If you have any questions or concerns you can contact the college at: 200-1765 West 8th Ave Vancouver, BC V6J 5C6 Canada. Vardenafil and Cialis are both PDE5 inhibitors used to treat erectile dysfunction, but Cialis lasts longer. Cialis can be taken daily or as needed and lasts up to 36 hours, while vardenafil is only levitra tablets 5mg used as needed and typically lasts five to seven hours. Both drugs are available in generic form, offering a more cost-effective option for those seeking ED treatment. You may find that SingleCare helps you save up to 80% on brand-name and generic medications. Another potential alternative is to check out SingleCare’s partnership with Lemonaid Health, where you can get Sildenafil for as little as $2 per pill.
Alternative medication therapies
Combining nitrates with Levitra can cause a dangerous and potentially fatal drop in blood pressure. • Are taking guanylate cyclase stimulators, such as riociguat (Adempas). This combination can also lead to dangerously low blood pressure. • Have had a heart attack or stroke within the past 6 months. Levitra may not be appropriate immediately following these events, and your doctor can assess the risks and benefits in your specific situation.
Can I use Levitra or Viagra with alcohol?
• Have severe heart failure, unstable angina (chest pain at rest or that occurs frequently), or other serious heart conditions. Levitra can put extra strain on the heart and may not be safe for individuals with these conditions. • Have a history of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), an eye condition that causes sudden vision loss. Discuss with your doctor to assess the risks and benefits. • Have certain hereditary degenerative retinal conditions, such as retinitis pigmentosa. These are the most accurate medication prices at the time of publishing in ZIP code 23666 as of Jan. 30, 2026.
Contact an Experienced Product Liability Attorney for Help
Combining these medications increases the risk of serious side effects. Combining alpha-blockers with Levitra can increase the risk of low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting. Your doctor can determine if the combination is safe for you and adjust dosages as needed. • Certain blood pressure medications: While some blood pressure medications are safe to take with Levitra, others can interact. Your doctor needs to know all medications you are taking to assess the risk.
Incidence not known
• Certain macrolide antibiotics: Such as erythromycin and clarithromycin. • Some HIV protease inhibitors: Such as ritonavir and indinavir. Grapefruit, alcohol, and marijuana: Grapefruit or grapefruit juice, excessive alcohol consumption, and marijuana use can increase the risk of serious side effects and should be discussed with a doctor. Grapefruit can inhibit enzymes that break down Levitra, leading to higher levels in the body. Alcohol can worsen side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure. The listed price without insurance references the price of brand-name drugs (unless otherwise specified).
| Aspect | Levitra (Vardenafil) | Sildenafil (Viagra) | Tadalafil (Cialis) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Onset of action | 25-30 minutes | 30-60 minutes | 30-60 minutes |
| Duration | Up to 4-5 hours | Up to 4 hours | Up to 36 hours |
| Food interactions | Less affected by food | Delayed if taken after heavy meals | Less affected by food |
| Side effect profile | Similar to others, with possible visual disturbances | Similar, with some headache | Longer-lasting effect |
The listed SingleCare price references the price of generic drugs if available.