Vilitra (vardenafil) is a PDE5 inhibitor predominantly used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. This product is a generic form of the more widely-recognized brand Levitra, equally effective but considerably less costly than its brand-name counterpart.

This product is for adult men only; it should not be given to those under age 18. Vilitra's effects on still-developing young bodies are unclear.

The active ingredient in Vilitra may, rarely, be used in both genders to treat hypertension or similar conditions. In these cases the medication is administered in significantly smaller doses and taken more frequently than when used for ED. Patients taking vardenafil for these other conditions should consult a doctor and follow doctor instructions. This page focuses on its use for ED.

Vilitra Basics

In most respects Vilitra is very similar to other PDE5 treatments, which are quite common for treating ED, though not the only option out there. All PDE5 treatments are vasodilators, which improve blood flow (including to the penis) and lower blood pressure. Men with low blood pressure or who are taking medications which influence the cardiovascular system should speak with a doctor about potential risks before taking Vilitra.

The improved blood flow caused by PDE5 inhibitors is sufficient, in most cases, to alleviate ED regardless of its underlying cause, with the exception of some physical abnormalities or injury. Vilitra---or any PDE5 inhibitor---will not cure ED, however. If the underlying cause is not found and addressed use of Vilitra will likely need to continue indefinitely to alleviate ED.

Vilitra comes in tablets, which, like other PDE5 inhibitor tablets, begin working about 30 minutes after administration. Tablets can be taken with food if desired, but heavy meals or high-fat meals may delay absorption of tablets to some extent.

The medication remains effective for about 5 hours, similar to Viagra. Men seeking a longer-lasting treatment may be interested in Cialis, which lasts 24 to 36 hours. Many men are perfectly happy with the more standard 4 to 6 hours of effectiveness that most PDE5 inhibitors offer.

As is the case with any PDE5 inhibitor, men taking Vilitra will require some stimulation to form an erection, either mental or physical. An erection will not spontaneous form on its own without stimulation. If working as intended, an erection firm enough for intercourse will form and will last long enough to acheive ejaculation. After ejaculation the erection should dissipate like usual. An erection that lingers for more than 4 hours (a condition called priapism) warrants medical attention; lasting damage to the penis can occur if not addressed. This is a very rare side effect.

Taking Vilitra

Vilitra is a very simple medication to use:

• A tablet should be taken 30 to 60 minutes prior to intimacy. Individuals will quickly become familiar with how quickly the medication begins working and can adjust accordingly.
• The medication will remain effective for around 5 hours, during which time an erection can be formed and utilized.
• Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours.
• Do not take more than three doses in 7 days.

That's it---very easy. Finding an effective dose, however, is a little more complicated. For most men:

• Standard starting dose is 10 mg.
• Men taking certain other medications, who have certain other medical conditions, or who experience significant side effects on 10 mg doses, may be instructed to take 5 mg doses.
• Men who do not experience significant side effects on 10 mg doses may have dosage increased, if needed, up to 20 mg.
• Some men find PDE5 inhibitors have little effect the first couple of times they're taken. Men new to PDE5 inhibitors should give the medication a few tries before increasing dosage or deciding it doesn't work.

As is the case with any medication, significant benefits may not be experienced by all patients. If Vilitra does not alleviate ED patients are advised to discuss other options with a doctor; there are numerous other, non-PDE5 inhibitor options available, such as Alprostadil, a prostaglandin E1 (PGE1).

Warnings Before Use

Used as directed, most men experience no side effects or only very mild, transient side effects. However, even if used exactly as directed there is a small risk that serious complications will develop. Seek medical attention if experiencing:

• An erection lasting more than four hours (priapism)
• Painful erections
• Changes in vision or hearing
• Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
• Fainting or convulsions
• Shortness of breath

Men with certain medical conditions are at increased risk of experiencing serious side effects, namely those with a history of:

• Heart, liver or kidney problems
• Any vision or hearing disorders
• Any blood cell or bleeding disorders
• Significantly low or high blood pressure
• Penile implants or physical abnormalities

Other medications of concern include:

• Other PDE5 inhibitors
• Nitrates
• Any other medication that influences blood pressure
• Medications that treat an enlarged prostate
• Medications to treat HIV/AIDS
• Recreational drugs, including alcohol

Other medications may also interact with Vilitra. It's always a good idea to double-check with a doctor or pharmacist before mixing medications.