Vardenafil (trade name Levitra, for example) is another drug that treats erectile dysfunction, and there are several precautions that should be taken in its use. As with sildenafil, concomitant use with certain medications should be avoided. Drugs and actions that require caution are listed below:
Contraindicated Drugs
Nitrates: concomitant use with nitrates such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide mononitrate can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Contraindicated Drugs
Nitrates: concomitant use with nitrates such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide mononitrate can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Guanylate cyclase stimulants: such as riociguat should not be used together because they may cause extreme lowering of blood pressure.
Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4: Some HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, indinavir), antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), and antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin) increase blood levels of vardenafil and increase risk of side effects.
Alpha-blockers: when used in combination with drugs used to treat hypertension and prostate enlargement (e.g., alfuzosin, doxazosin), there is a risk of lowering blood pressure too much.
What not to do
Consumption of large amounts of alcohol: Alcohol is a vasodilator and may cause an excessive drop in blood pressure when combined with vardenafil.
Operating machinery: Vardenafil can affect vision, so use caution when driving or operating machinery.
DUPLICATION: Avoid multiple use with other erectile dysfunction medications of the same class (sildenafil, tadalafil).Excessive effects or side effects may occur.
It is important to report all other medications you are taking to your physician and follow his/her instructions before using vardenafil.
