Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitor
ATC code: G04BE09 (Vardenafil)
Brand names
Levitra, Staxyn
Selective PDE-5 inhibitor with rapid onset (25–60 minutes) and 4–5 hour half-life. Mechanism identical to sildenafil and tadalafil. Metabolised by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent CYP2C9. Mildly prolongs QT and PR intervals, requiring caution in congenital long QT syndrome.
First line
Vardenafil is first-line PDE-5 inhibitor for erectile dysfunction. AEMPS approved 5, 10 and 20 mg doses 25–60 minutes before intercourse. Alternative to sildenafil or when one is not tolerated. Not used for pulmonary hypertension (only tadalafil and sildenafil).
The drug is promoted for these uses outside international guidelines. Each entry below is analyzed against AEMPS, FDA, EMA, Cochrane and major RCTs.
Not recommended
Vardenafil is a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor. It is prescribed for erectile dysfunction (AEMPS Ficha Técnica). In sports circles, vardenafil is promoted to improve blood flow and physical endurance in healthy athletes. Clinical studies in healthy athletes are insufficient. The drug has specific risks: headache, facial flushing, nasal congestion, dyspepsia, QT prolongation, visual disturbances, and is dangerous combined with nitrates. If vardenafil is used for training, consider seeking a second opinion.
3 pairs found. Sorted from critical to minor.
Mechanism
Same pharmacodynamics – synergistic hypotension.
Symptoms
Fatal hypotension.
Management
Combination contraindicated. 24-hour washout.
Mechanism
Same as tadalafil-nitrate.
Symptoms
Fatal hypotension.
Management
Combination contraindicated. 24-hour washout.
Mechanism
Ritonavir – CYP3A4 inhibitor. Vardenafil rises 13-fold.
Symptoms
Severe hypotension, QT prolongation.
Management
Combination contraindicated.
Opens the checker prefilled with this drug. Pick the second one from your regimen.
Direct links to regulator labels. Open in a new tab.
Not used in women.
Not used in women.
Reference information, not a clinical decision. Discuss feeding pauses or changes with your physician or an IBCLC.
Vardenafil is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Erectile dysfunction (evidence tier A), Athletic endurance (evidence tier F). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.
Common side effects of Vardenafil (≥ 1 in 100): Headache, Facial flushing, Nasal congestion, Dyspepsia, Dizziness. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.
FDA category B. Not used in women.
Not used in women.
Vardenafil is contraindicated in: Combination with any nitrate or NO donor; Combination with riociguat; Prior QT prolongation; Class IA and III antiarrhythmics (amiodarone, quinidine, sotalol); Severe hepatic impairment. Full list in the Safety section.