Almost one in four men under forty suffer some sort of erectile dysfunction. For a disorder that can feel so isolating and embarrassing, that’s a pretty big statistic.
With those figures, it’s only a matter of time before talking about erectile dysfunction and its treatment becomes commonplace. There’s no shame in having ED or taking medication for it.
If your doctor has suggested medication, it’s essential to know any potential vardenafil side effects.
This generic erectile dysfunction treatment is well-tolerated by most, so read the information below as a just-in-case guide, not as “what to expect.”
Table of contents
Never use ED medications without your doctor’s advice and prescription. Your healthcare provider needs to know all about your health condition and all medications and supplements you take before making the best decision.
What is Vardenafil? How Does It Work in the body?
There are a few different classes of drugs for erectile dysfunction treatment. Vardenafil (generic Levitra) falls under the Phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitors category, as do similar market drugs like tadalafil and sildenafil.
PDE5 inhibitors increase the flow of blood to the penis. It’s designed to work alongside sexual activity and generally does not create an erection unless there is genital stimulation.
It comes in tablet and disintegrating tablet form and should be taken an hour before predicted sexual activity. You can buy these tablets online for cheaper than you’d find them in the pharmacy.
Buying ED medication online is safe and discreet, perfect for busy men who don’t have time to wait in lines.
Read more: Flomax vs. Viagra: Are Tamsulosin & Sildenafil the Same Thing?
What are the Side Effects of Vardenafil?
Any time you take a medication, whether it’s something as mild as Tylenol or as intense as a steroid, you risk having side effects. Some people are more sensitive to medication than others, and by this point, you know how your body generally reacts.
Medication side effects can wear off over time as your body gets used to the medication. Some people only experience them when there are extenuating factors (like when they’re tired, dehydrated, or otherwise not feeling well).
You should always tell your doctor about any side effects, even if they’re temporary or mild.
Common Side Effects
There’s no percentage of people who get side effects with vardenafil other than the figures from the original trial. Some side effects, from most to least common, include:
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose
- Headache
- Flushing (skin warmth and redness)
- Heartburn
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Back pain
- Minor dizziness
As we noted above, PDE5 inhibitors increase blood flow from the rest of the body into the penis. These side effects are a result of re-directed blood flow.
Most people only experience the dizziness side effect when getting up quickly from a lying position. If you plan to change positions drastically, doing so slowly may reduce the likeliness of feeling dizzy or lightheaded.
This side effect is more common if you have blood pressure complications or are on associated medications. People with sedentary lifestyles are also more likely to experience dizziness from sitting to standing. Increasing your exercise routine can reduce this phenomenon in general and may help you with your ED.
Staying hydrated may help prevent vardenafil’s common side effects, as hydration is one of the most important aspects of a healthy body. Talk to your doctor about more ways how to reduce the side effects of vardenafil.
Vardenafil (Generic Levitra) Serious Side Effects
Every medication (including over-the-counter drugs) has possible severe side effects. They’re uncommon and unlikely, but because they can happen, it’s important to know what they are.
If you have any of the following side effects, call a doctor immediately.
- Prolonged erection
- Sudden loss of vision or blurred vision
- Changes in vision
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling (non-genital)
- Fainting
- Hives
- Decrease in hearing abilities
- Flu-like symptoms
- Chills
- Confusion
- Irregular heartbeat
Stop using the medication if you have these side effects and call your doctor or go to your nearest medical clinic.
How Common Are These Severe Side Effects?
Not common at all. When they test drugs, they test them on people, most like those who will take the medication. Those people have their own comorbid (existing) conditions, which can cause unique reactions to the drug.
By law, they have to list every side effect and reaction that happens in the trial, even if it’s thought to be due to a pre-existing condition or interaction with another medication. That’s why side effect lists (in their entirety) are so long.
When Should You Not Use Vardenafil?
Some people aren’t a good fit for vardenafil (generic Levitra)because of comorbid conditions and medication interactions. You should not take vardenafil or other PDE5 inhibitors if you have/had …
- Uncontrolled blood pressure
- Heart conditions
- Leukemia
- Sickle cell anemia
- A recent stroke
- Liver or Kidney problems
- Multiple myeloma
If you have any serious health conditions, talk to a doctor before adding any new medication or supplement to your routine.
How to Reduce Side Effects of Vardenafil
As we said above, hydration is important in reducing the side effects of vardenafil. The more hydrated your body is, the easier it is for blood to flow throughout the body, including to your penis.
Hydration can reduce symptoms like headache, dizziness, and flushing. If you know you’re prone to heartburn, try not to eat any foods that trigger a heartburn reaction when you take vardenafil.
If you find the pill upsets your stomach, try taking it with food. The tablet can be taken with or without food, but taking medication with a meal is easier on some people’s stomachs.
Vardenafil Side Effects: Not Common, but Possible
It’s our duty as a medication provider to let you know the side effects of any medication we sell. Vardenafil side effects are generally well-tolerated if they occur, and we trust that the results of taking the medication will outweigh any potential downfalls.
Always talk to your doctor if you have any questions and if you experience anything you’re uncomfortable with, including the symptoms above.