1. Getting the Blood Flowing
Levitra is the brand name for the generic drug vardenafil, a phosphodiesterase type five inhibitor that increases blood flow to parts of the body by relaxing blood vessels. Levitra is used primarily for men suffering from erectile dysfunction by relaxing blood vessels to the penis, allowing more blood to flow to the penis when it is stimulated so an erection can be maintained. Levitra does not work without sexual stimulation and does not increase sex drive.
2. Take as Prescribed
Levitra should be used only in the prescribed dosage and duration (this varies according to age and particular condition). It’s best to take this oral medication with a glass of water. This drug can be taken with or without food. Take the tablet one hour before sexual activity, and not more than once within a 24-hour period. Levitra can be kept at room temperature and should be stored away from any heat or moisture.
3. Nitrates and Levitra a Big No-No
Like oil and water, Levitra and nitrates (prescribed for some heart conditions) do not mix. Nitrates work in much the same way as Levitra, relaxing arteries and allowing increased blood flow to the heart. Taking nitrates with Levitra can cause a dramatic drop in blood pressure than can at the least cause fainting and at the worst a heart attack or stroke. This can happen by mixing Levitra with any nitrate-based drug, including nitroglycerin pills or patches or isosorbide pills. This also applies to alpha-blockers such as blood pressure or prostate drugs.
4. When Not Using Levitra Is the Right Choice
Levitra is not a “one size fits all” drug. If you have any of these medical conditions, Levitra should not be taken: a history of stroke, heart attack or blood clots, kidney or liver disease, low or high blood pressure, or any blood or bleeding disorder. As Levitra can cause decreased blood flow to the optic nerve, this drug should be avoided if you have an inherited eye condition called retinitis pigmentosa, a progressive disease that leads over time to a reduction in night vision and the development of tunnel vision.
5. Potential Side Effects
Every drug has a list of potential or possible side effects that, when displayed, should prompt you to stop taking the drug and seek medical attention. For Levitra, possible side effects include chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, a change in or loss of vision, light-headedness and ringing in the ears. It is noted that should an erection aided by Levitra last more than four hours, medical attention should be sought as this can damage the penis. Headaches, nausea and back pain are considered less serious side effects.
Source: http://www.livestrong.com/article/5095-need-using-levitra/
