Vardenafil (oral route)
It is important that you tell all of your doctors that you take vardenafil. This information is crucial for ensuring that all healthcare providers are aware of your medication regimen and can make informed decisions regarding your health. If you find yourself in a situation requiring emergency medical care, particularly for a heart-related issue, your doctor will need to know exactly when you last took vardenafil to manage your treatment effectively.
Be particularly cautious and do not use this medicine if you are also using a nitrate medication for angina or high blood pressure, as combining these substances can lead to serious cardiovascular complications. Examples of such nitrate medications include nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrol® ointment, Nitrolingual® spray, Nitrostat®, and Transderm Nitro®. Additionally, be aware that certain illicit ("street") drugs known as "poppers" contain nitrates like amyl nitrate and butyl nitrate. You should also refrain from using vardenafil if you are taking riociguat (Adempas®) due to potential life-threatening interactions.
If you experience a prolonged or painful erection lasting 4 hours or more, it is imperative that you contact your doctor immediately. This condition, known as priapism, may necessitate urgent medical intervention to avoid serious and irreversible injury to your penis.
Seek medical attention promptly if you notice a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes. This could indicate a serious condition that requires immediate evaluation.
Equally important, be alert for sudden decreases in hearing or hearing loss accompanied by dizziness or ringing in the ears. These symptoms could suggest severe side effects that warrant urgent consultation with your healthcare provider.
If you are already taking medication for high blood pressure (hypertension), be advised that vardenafil may cause your blood pressure to drop to dangerously low levels. Call your doctor right away if you experience blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness upon standing up quickly from a lying or seated position, as well as significant sweating or unusual tiredness and weakness.
Please note that this medication does not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV or AIDS. It is essential that you use appropriate protective measures during sexual activity and consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding this issue.
Finally, it is essential not to take other medications unless you have discussed them with your healthcare provider. This includes any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications, as well as herbal supplements and vitamins, which may interact with vardenafil and lead to adverse effects or diminished effectiveness.