Levitra (vardenafil) is used to treat erectile dysfunction in adult males by relaxing the muscles and blood vessels which may restrict blood flow to the penis. It does not increase sexual desire and will not produce an erection without sexual stimulation.

This treatment is not a cure for erectile dysfunction, but will help men maintain an active, healthy sex life while underlying causes are found and addressed.

Restore Intimacy with Levitra:

It can be quite difficult to diagnose the root cause of erectile dysfunction. This condition can strike males of any age and for a myriad of reasons:

• Age and physical health
  
• Physical nerve or blood vessel damage
• Hormonal imbalances
• Prescription or non-prescription medications
• Recreational drug use
• Physical or emotional stress
• Psychological disorders
• Any combination of the above

Most men can easily imagine how emotionally devastating this condition can be. Partners, and even relationships, often suffer as a result of erectile dysfunction as well. Because it so difficult to uncover the underlying cause of the dysfunction, diagnosis is often frustratingly slow.

Levitra allows men to restore confidence and intimacy in the interim. It can be taken discreetly and begins working within 30 minutes of administration. Effects last longer than Viagra; usually for about five hours, compared to Viagra's average of four.

Taking Levitra:

Levitra comes as a tablet or as an orally dissolving tablet. Regular tablets can be taken with or without food and liquids. With orally dissolving tablets, food and liquids should be avoided until the tablet is completely gone.

For most men the medication begins working after 30 minutes, but ideally it should be taken one hour prior to sexual activity to ensure an erection firm enough for intercourse is achieved. When sexual stimulation ceases, blood will drain from the penis like normal until stimulation begins again.

Only one dose should be taken in a 24 hour period. Taking more than the prescribed dose may result in dangerous side effects.

Depending on the underlying cause of the dysfunction, Levitra might not be effective for all men. If desired effects are not achieved with Levitra, speak to a physician about alternative options.

Contraindications:

Not all patients are ideal prospects for Levitra use. It should be used with caution in men suffering from certain health conditions:

• Angina or frequent chest pain
• Heart, liver or kidney disease
• History of heart attack or stroke
• Any vision or hearing disorders
• Blood cell or bleeding disorders
• Low or high blood pressure
• Physical abnormalities of the penis
• Penile implants

When taken in conjunction with nitrates, Levitra may cause potentially life-threatening low blood pressure. Nitrates are commonly found in medications used to treat chest pain, as well as in the recreational drugs commonly known as "poppers" which contain amyl nitrate and butyl nitrate.

This medication is for men only and will have no effect on women other than the risk of serious side effects.

Avoid eating grapefruit while taking Levitra; it may interfere with the medication and cause complications.

Side Effects:

Most side effects associated with this medication are very mild and pass quickly. Rarely, however, more serious side effects may occur which warrant immediate medical attention:

• An erection lasting more than four hours
• Painful erections
• Loss or impairment of vision or hearing
• Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
• Fainting or convulsions
• Shortness of breath

Use of other erectile dysfunction treatments should be avoided while taking this medication unless specifically instructed otherwise by a physician.

Levitra may interact with other prescription medications and result in severe side effects or reduced effectiveness. Consult a doctor before mixing medications.

Even if Levitra or a similar medication works well, men suffering from erectile dysfunction should work with a physician towards diagnosing and resolving the issue. Erectile dysfunction may be a symptom of a more dangerous underlying condition.