Levitra 20 mg (Vardenafil) — Trusted ED Treatment
Levitra 20 mg contains Vardenafil, a PDE-5 inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Though the original brand has been discontinued in many places, Vardenafil remains available as a generic with identical efficacy.
Mechanism of Action
Vardenafil works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE‑5), which preserves levels of cGMP, essential for relaxing blood vessels during sexual arousal—boosting penile blood flow for stronger, sustained erections.
Key Benefits
- Effective ED relief: Helps achieve and maintain an erection with sexual stimulation.
- Proven performance: Clinical trials show significant improvement—80% of men on 20 mg achieved successful erections vs. 52% with placebo.
- Rapid onset and meaningful duration: Starts in roughly 60 minutes and lasts 4–5 hours.
- Cost-effective generic option: Less expensive than brand-name ED drugs, with significant savings for large quantities.
How to Use
Dosage: For most, start at 10 mg, taken orally 60 minutes before sexual activity, adjustable up to 20 mg or down to 5 mg based on tolerance.
Frequency: Use no more than once per day.
Food considerations: Can be taken with or without food, but high-fat meals may delay its effect.
Special populations: For men aged 65+ or with moderate liver impairment, a 5 mg starting dose is safer; avoid use in severe hepatic/renal impairment.
Safety & Side Effects
Common (usually mild)
- Headache
- Flushing
- Dizziness
- Nasal congestion
- Indigestion
- Back pain
Serious (rare)
- Priapism (painful erection over 4 hours)
- Vision or hearing changes—seek urgent medical care.
- Not to be used with nitrates—risk of dangerous blood-pressure drop.
- Avoid with medications that prolong QT interval or alternative ED treatments unless directed by a physician.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How quickly does Levitra 20 mg work and how long does it last?
Medication typically starts working in around 60 minutes, and effects last approximately 4–5 hours.
Q2: Is Levitra still available in brand form?
No—the brand Levitra has been discontinued in many markets. Vardenafil, its generic form, is fully equivalent in safety and effectiveness.
Q3: How does Vardenafil compare to other ED medications?
Vardenafil takes slightly less time to begin working and lasts mid-range (~4–5 hrs), shorter than Tadalafil (~36 hrs), and similar to Sildenafil. Different options fit different lifestyles and needs.
Q4: What if I am older or have liver/kidney problems?
Starting at 5 mg is prudent for men aged 65+ or with moderate liver issues. Not recommended for severe organ impairment.
Q5: Can I take it with food or grapefruit juice?
High-fat meals may slow absorption; avoid grapefruit juice, as it can amplify side effects.
Q6: What about price?
Generic Vardenafil is much more affordable—prices drop significantly when buying in bulk. Some online pharmacies offer it for under USD 10 per tablet.
Related Products (Alternatives)
- Tadalafil (Cialis) – Longer duration (up to 36 hours), also treats BPH, available in daily low-dose forms.
- Sildenafil (Viagra generic) – Fast-acting (~30–60 minutes), similar duration as Vardenafil (~4–6 hours).
- Avanafil (Stendra) – Ultra-fast onset (~15–30 minutes), shorter action.
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