Vardenafil
Generic Details
Generic Name
Vardenafil
Other Names
- Levitra
- Staxyn
Drug Class
- Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) Inhibitor
Chemical Formula
C23H32N6O4S
Molecular Weight
488.604 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibition of PDE5 enzyme, leading to increased levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the corpus cavernosum of the penis, enhancing erectile function by causing smooth muscle relaxation and increased blood flow
Indications
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pulmonary arterial hypertension
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
Typical Dosage
- 10 mg taken orally, as needed, approximately 60 minutes before sexual activity
Pediatric Dosage
- Not established
Geriatric Dosage
- Consider lower starting dose of 5 mg
Side Effects
- Headache
- Flushing
- Dyspepsia
- Nasal congestion
- Back pain
Contraindications
- Use of nitrates
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Severe renal impairment
Pregnancy Category
- Not applicable. Only used in males for erectile dysfunction
Lactation Safety
- Not applicable
Drug Interactions
- Nitrates
- Alpha-blockers
- Antifungals
- HIV protease inhibitors
- Macrolide antibiotics
Overdose Symptoms
- Protracted erection
- Severe hypotension
Antidote for Overdose
- Symptomatic and supportive treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Distributed into tissues
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver mainly by CYP3A4
- Excretion: Excreted in feces (approximately 91-95%) and urine (approximately 2-6%)
Precautions
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Hypotension
- Prolonged QT interval
Warnings
- Priapism
- Vision loss
- Hearing loss
Others
- It is important to inform healthcare providers about all medications being taken, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements.