Vardenafil (oral route)
It is important that you tell all of your doctors that you take vardenafil. This information is crucial because vardenafil can interact with other medications and medical conditions. If you ever require emergency medical care for a heart problem or any related issue, informing your healthcare professionals about when you last took vardenafil can significantly impact your treatment options. They need this vital information to avoid complications and ensure your safety during such emergencies.
Do not use this medicine if you are also using a nitrate medicine for angina or high blood pressure. These combinations can lead to severe drops in blood pressure, which may result in serious health risks. Some examples of nitrate medicines include nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrol® ointment, Nitrolingual® spray, Nitrostat®, and Transderm Nitro®. Additionally, certain recreational drugs known as "poppers" can contain nitrates, such as amyl nitrate and butyl nitrate, and using vardenafil alongside these substances is strictly prohibited. Moreover, do not use this medicine if you are taking riociguat (Adempas®), as the interaction can lead to harmful effects.
If you experience a prolonged or painful erection for 4 hours or more, contact your doctor right away. This condition, known as priapism, may require immediate medical intervention to avoid serious and permanent damage to the tissues of your penis. Ignoring this symptom can lead to long-term complications, and therefore, it is vital that you act swiftly if it occurs.
If you have a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, contact your doctor right away. This could be a sign of a serious condition that needs urgent attention. Vision loss, while rare, can be linked to the use of vardenafil, and being proactive about any changes in your eyesight is essential for your overall health.
Check with your doctor right away if you have a sudden decrease in hearing or loss of hearing with dizziness or ringing in the ears. These symptoms could indicate a serious side effect associated with vardenafil that needs to be addressed immediately. Hearing loss can occur, and it is critical that you communicate any changes in your auditory perception to your healthcare provider.
If you already take medications for high blood pressure (hypertension), be aware that vardenafil could potentially lower your blood pressure too much. It is important to monitor how you feel, so call your doctor right away if you experience symptoms such as blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness, especially when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position. Sweating excessively or feeling unusually tired or weak are also signs to report to your healthcare provider.
This medicine does not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases (including HIV or AIDS). Therefore, it is essential to use appropriate protective measures during sexual activity. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your sexual health and safety, do not hesitate to ask your doctor for guidance.
Lastly, do not take any other medicines unless they have been thoroughly discussed with your doctor. This guidance applies to all prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines as well as any herbal or vitamin supplements. Interactions can lead to unintended side effects, so always keep your healthcare provider informed about all substances you are taking.