“Levitra”: what it is and what your next step should be

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Levitra® (vardenafil) is a prescription medication for erectile dysfunction (ED). Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting or changing any treatment.

If you’re searching for “Levitra for erectile dysfunction,” “vardenafil vs sildenafil,” or “how to treat ED,” you’re likely looking for clear answers. Below is a practical, user‑journey guide: from symptoms to what doctors usually check, and what steps make sense next.

3 typical scenarios

Scenario 1: Erections are less reliable than before

Who/what is experienced: You notice difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for intercourse. It happens repeatedly over several weeks or months.

What this might mean: Persistent erection problems may be consistent with erectile dysfunction (ED). ED can be linked to stress, anxiety, relationship factors, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, low testosterone, or cardiovascular disease. Occasional issues are common; ongoing problems warrant evaluation.

What a doctor usually does:
– Asks about symptom duration, severity, morning erections, libido.
– Reviews medications (some antidepressants, blood pressure drugs).
– Screens for cardiovascular risk factors and diabetes.
– May order blood tests (glucose, lipids, testosterone) and check blood pressure.
– Discusses treatment options, which may include PDE5 inhibitors such as vardenafil (Levitra) as prescribed by a doctor.

For a broader overview of men’s sexual health, see our guide to erectile dysfunction basics.

Scenario 2: You have chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension) and ED

Who/what is experienced: You have a known medical condition and are now experiencing erection difficulties.

What this might mean: ED is often associated with vascular conditions. In some men, it can be an early sign of endothelial dysfunction or cardiovascular disease. Diabetes and hypertension can impair blood flow and nerve function necessary for erections.

What a doctor usually does:
– Reviews control of underlying conditions (HbA1c for diabetes, BP readings).
– Assesses cardiovascular fitness for sexual activity.
– Evaluates medication interactions (especially nitrates).
– Considers PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., Levitra/vardenafil), vacuum erection devices, or referral to a specialist if needed.

If you’re managing heart risk factors, you may also find helpful our article on cardiovascular health and lifestyle strategies.

Scenario 3: You’re considering Levitra and want to know if it’s right for you

Who/what is experienced: You’ve heard about Levitra (vardenafil) and are comparing it with other ED medications like sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis).

What this might mean: Levitra is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. It works by enhancing the effect of nitric oxide, increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. It does not cause automatic erections and requires arousal.

What a doctor usually does:
– Reviews contraindications (notably nitrate therapy).
– Checks for heart rhythm disorders (vardenafil can affect QT interval in some patients).
– Discusses onset and duration of action.
– Explains possible side effects (headache, flushing, nasal congestion, dyspepsia).
– Provides a prescription if appropriate and safe.

For comparison of different ED treatment classes, visit our overview of treatment options for erectile dysfunction.

Decision tree: what to do next

1. If erection problems occur occasionally and during high stress, then consider stress reduction, sleep optimization, limiting alcohol, and monitor for 4–6 weeks.
2. If symptoms persist for 3 months or more, then book a primary care or urology appointment for evaluation.
3. If you have diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol, then prioritize medical review to assess cardiovascular risk before starting ED medication.
4. If you take nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) or certain antiarrhythmics, then do not use Levitra and seek medical advice for alternatives.
5. If your doctor confirms ED and no contraindications, then discuss whether a PDE5 inhibitor such as vardenafil is suitable.
6. If oral medications are ineffective or not tolerated, then ask about other therapies (devices, injections, counseling).

When to seek help urgently (red flags)

• Chest pain during sexual activity – may indicate cardiovascular instability.
• Sudden vision or hearing loss – rare but serious adverse events reported with PDE5 inhibitors.
• Priapism (erection lasting >4 hours) – requires emergency treatment to prevent tissue damage.
• Severe dizziness or fainting – possible blood pressure drop.
• Allergic reaction (swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing).

If any of the above occur, seek immediate medical care.

Approaches to treatment/management (overview)

1. Oral medications (PDE5 inhibitors)
Levitra (vardenafil), sildenafil, tadalafil, and avanafil belong to this class. They enhance blood flow in response to sexual stimulation. They are taken as prescribed by a doctor. Differences include onset time and duration.

2. Lifestyle modification
Weight management, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, and reduced alcohol intake can improve erectile function and overall cardiovascular health.

3. Psychological support
If performance anxiety, depression, or relationship stress is involved, therapy or couples counseling may help.

4. Vacuum erection devices
Mechanical devices that draw blood into the penis; useful when medications are contraindicated.

5. Injectable or intraurethral therapies
Medications administered locally under specialist guidance.

6. Hormonal therapy
If clinically low testosterone is confirmed, treatment may be considered under endocrinology supervision.

Prevention: reducing the risk of erectile dysfunction

• Control blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol.
• Exercise at least 150 minutes per week (moderate intensity).
• Maintain a healthy BMI.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
• Prioritize sleep and stress management.

Healthy routines also support broader well‑being. Explore our preventive health and lifestyle section for practical tips.

Method	Who it suits	Limitations / Risks
PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., Levitra)	Men with diagnosed ED without nitrate therapy	Headache, flushing; contraindicated with nitrates; caution in certain heart conditions
Lifestyle modification	Most men, especially with metabolic risk factors	Requires sustained effort; gradual results
Psychotherapy	ED with anxiety, depression, relationship issues	Time commitment; variable response
Vacuum devices	Men who cannot take oral meds	Bruising, discomfort; learning curve
Hormone therapy	Men with confirmed low testosterone	Requires monitoring; not for normal T levels

Questions to ask your doctor

1. Is my ED likely related to cardiovascular risk?
2. Am I healthy enough for sexual activity?
3. Is Levitra (vardenafil) safe with my current medications?
4. How does vardenafil compare with sildenafil or tadalafil for me?
5. What side effects should I watch for?
6. How long does the effect typically last?
7. What should I do if the medication doesn’t work the first time?
8. Do I need blood tests (glucose, lipids, testosterone)?
9. Could stress or mental health be contributing?
10. What non-drug options are appropriate in my case?

Sources (authoritative)

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Vardenafil prescribing information.
• European Medicines Agency (EMA) – Levitra (vardenafil) product information.
• American Urological Association (AUA) – Guidelines on Erectile Dysfunction.
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) – Erectile Dysfunction overview.
• Mayo Clinic – Erectile dysfunction: symptoms and causes.

Bottom line: If you’re experiencing ongoing erection problems, your next best step is a medical evaluation. Levitra (vardenafil) may be one option among several, but safe and effective treatment starts with understanding the underlying cause.