What is Vardenafil?

Vardenafil is widely known as one of the pharmaceuticals for managing erectile dysfunction among adult males. It is under the class known as PDE5 inhibitors which form part of the series of medicines produced to enhance the flow of blood to specific tissues in the human body, including the penis. It acts to relax the muscles of the arteries to increase flow to the male's penile tissues when erotic stimulation occurs that helps the patient achieve and hold an erection.

Unlike other ED medicines, Vardenafil acts immediately: its effects kick in between 25 to 60 minutes following the intake. However, as a note of caution, this medicine is not an aphrodisiac; that is, its effect is manifested only when sexually aroused. Many males prefer this particular medication because the results are reliable and predictable. Also, it has a manageable duration of action because it lasts for a period of around 4 to 5 hours.

What is Vardenafil Used For?

Treating Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

The primary use of Vardenafil is to address erectile dysfunction, a condition where men face difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection suitable for sexual activity. It provides a practical and effective solution for restoring normal sexual function.

Boosting Sexual Confidence

By effectively treating ED, Vardenafil can help men regain their confidence in the bedroom. Overcoming performance anxiety often leads to improved emotional and relational well-being.

Providing Quick and Reliable Results

Vardenafil works quickly, usually within an hour, and remains effective for a reasonable duration. This makes it a dependable choice for spontaneous or planned intimacy.

Suitable for a Broad Range of Patients

Men who may not respond well to other ED treatments often turn to Vardenafil as a solution. Its efficacy and safety profile make it an ideal option for those with certain underlying conditions.

How Does Vardenafil Work?

Vardenafil improves erectile function by targeting the enzyme PDE5 (phosphodiesterase type 5), which plays a key role in regulating blood flow in the penis. By inhibiting PDE5, the medicine helps relax the smooth muscles in the blood vessels, allowing increased blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal.

Mechanism of Action:

PDE5 Inhibition
Vardenafil prevents the breakdown of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a molecule essential for relaxing blood vessels and sustaining an erection.
Enhanced Blood Flow
Relaxation of blood vessel walls ensures improved circulation to the penile tissues during sexual stimulation.
Sustained Erections
By maintaining higher cGMP levels, Vardenafil supports prolonged erections necessary for satisfactory sexual activity.

When to Consider Vardenafil for ED Treatment

Who Should Use Vardenafil?

Vardenafil is suitable for adult men with ED who:

Struggle to maintain an erection during sexual activity.
Are generally healthy but face temporary or psychological barriers to erectile function.
Prefer a medication that acts quickly and lasts for a moderate duration.

Who Should Avoid Vardenafil?

Men with the following conditions or risk factors should not use Vardenafil:

Severe liver or heart problems.
A recent history of a heart attack or stroke.
Low blood pressure or specific eye conditions (e.g., retinitis pigmentosa).
Concurrent use of nitrates or nitric oxide donors, as these combinations can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure.

Consult Your Doctor If:

You are taking medications for other conditions that might interact with Vardenafil.
You have a history of heart disease, arrhythmias, or severe allergies.

Can You Buy Vardenafil Over the Counter?

In the UK, Vardenafil is classified as a prescription-only medication (POM). This means it cannot be purchased over the counter. You need to consult a healthcare professional to obtain a prescription, ensuring the medication is appropriate and safe for your individual health needs.

For convenience, online consultations with registered pharmacies offer a secure and private way to access Vardenafil after appropriate medical evaluation.

Precautions While Using Vardenafil

When using Vardenafil, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines to avoid adverse effects or reduced efficacy.

Medical History: Disclose any pre-existing health conditions, particularly related to the heart, liver, or kidneys, to your doctor before starting the medication.
Alcohol and Grapefruit: Avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol or grapefruit products, as they can interfere with the medicine's effectiveness and increase the likelihood of side effects.
Drug Interactions: Do not combine Vardenafil with nitrates, alpha-blockers, or other PDE5 inhibitors. Such combinations may lead to dangerous drops in blood pressure.
Missed Doses: Take Vardenafil only as needed, prior to sexual activity. It is not intended for daily use.

Alternative Medications

If Vardenafil is not suitable or fails to deliver the desired results, several other options for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) are available. These medications vary in terms of onset time, duration, and method of administration, allowing individuals to choose what best fits their needs.

Sildenafil (Viagra)

Popularity: Sildenafil is perhaps the most widely recognised ED medication worldwide.
Mechanism: It works similarly to Vardenafil by enhancing blood flow to the penis but typically requires 30-60 minutes to become effective.
Duration: The effects last for about 4-6 hours, making it suitable for most men looking for short-term effectiveness.

Tadalafil (Cialis)

Longevity: Nicknamed the "weekend pill," Tadalafil is famous for its extended duration of action, lasting up to 36 hours.
Flexibility: This long-lasting effect allows greater spontaneity in sexual activity, making it a preferred option for many.
Usage: Available for as-needed use or as a lower-dose daily option for men requiring ongoing treatment.

Avanafil (Spedra)

Speed: This newer medication stands out for its rapid onset, becoming effective in as little as 15 minutes.
Convenience: Ideal for men who prioritise quick results without long waiting periods.
Duration: It provides results lasting for up to 6 hours, comparable to Sildenafil.

Alprostadil

Non-Oral Option: For men who cannot take oral ED medications, Alprostadil offers an alternative.
Forms: Available as an injection directly into the penis or as a urethral suppository.
Effectiveness: Quickly enhances blood flow, making it effective for achieving an erection.
Consultation: Always seek advice from a healthcare provider to identify the best treatment based on individual needs, health status, and potential medicine interactions.

How to Take it

Proper usage of Vardenafil is key to ensuring effectiveness and minimising side effects. Follow these guidelines for optimal results:

Dosage:

Standard Dose: The usual starting dose is 10 mg, but your doctor may adjust this based on your body's response and any side effects.
Personalisation: For some men, a lower dose (5 mg) or a higher dose (20 mg) may be recommended.

Timing:

Before Activity: Take Vardenafil approximately 30-60 minutes before planned sexual activity.
Preparation: Its effects can last for up to 4-5 hours, giving ample flexibility within that time frame.

Frequency:

One-Dose Only: Do not exceed one dose within 24 hours to prevent adverse reactions.

With or Without Food:

Meals: While Vardenafil can be taken with or without food, it’s best to avoid heavy or fatty meals, which might delay its onset.
Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake to reduce the risk of side effects like dizziness.

Note: Always use the medication according to the doctor’s prescription, the above-given directions are general. As it is a prescription-only medication so, always consult your healthcare professional about the dosage or how to take it.

It’s essential to understand the composition of Vardenafil, especially for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.

Active Ingredient:

Vardenafil Hydrochloride: The primary component responsible for enhancing blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal.

Inactive Ingredients:

These components vary between manufacturers but often include:

• Microcrystalline Cellulose: Helps bind the tablet together.
• Magnesium Stearate: Acts as a lubricant in the manufacturing process.
• Crospovidone: Assists in the tablet's disintegration for faster absorption.

Note: Always review the packaging for a complete ingredient list, particularly if you have known allergies. Also, inactive ingredients can vary between manufacturers, so check the label carefully. 

While Vardenafil is considered safe for most men, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects. Understanding these can help you take necessary precautions and seek advice if needed.

Common Side Effects:

These mild reactions often subside on their own and rarely require medical intervention:

Headache: A common side effect that typically fades after a few hours.
Flushing (redness of the skin): This occurs due to increased blood flow and usually affects the face and neck.
Nasal congestion: A stuffy or runny nose can occur but is generally mild and temporary.
Indigestion or upset stomach: Some users report mild discomfort that can be managed by avoiding heavy meals before taking the medication.
Back pain: This is an infrequent side effect and usually resolves without treatment.
Dizziness, especially when standing up quickly: Caused by a temporary drop in blood pressure, so it’s important to stand or move slowly.

Rare but Serious Side Effects:

Though uncommon, the following side effects require immediate medical attention:

Vision Changes: Blurred vision or increased sensitivity to light.
Hearing Loss: Sudden decrease or loss of hearing in one or both ears.
Priapism: A painful and prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours, which can cause permanent damage if untreated.
Important: Stop using the medication and consult your doctor if you experience severe or persistent side effects.