Vardenafil: What You Need to Know

Vardenafil is a prescription drug used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It works by increasing blood flow to the penis after sexual stimulation. If you’re thinking about this medicine, here’s the straight talk: how to use it, what to watch for, and how to buy it without getting scammed.

How to take Vardenafil

Most people take vardenafil 30–60 minutes before sex. It comes in tablets (usually 5, 10, or 20 mg). Start low — doctors often begin with 5 or 10 mg and adjust based on how you respond. Avoid a big fatty meal right before taking it; fat can slow absorption and delay the effect. Don’t take it more than once in 24 hours.

Timing matters. If you want quicker action, take it on an empty stomach. If you have liver or kidney problems, or you’re older, your doctor may lower the dose. Follow the prescription — don’t split or double tablets without medical advice.

Side effects, risks, and interactions

Common side effects are headache, flushing, stuffy nose, upset stomach, and dizziness. These usually pass in a few hours. Stop the medicine and contact a doctor if you get sudden vision loss, hearing loss, chest pain, or an erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism). Those are serious and need immediate care.

Do not take vardenafil with nitrates (like nitroglycerin) or recreational drugs called "poppers" — the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. It also interacts with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, ritonavir, some antibiotics) and certain heart medicines. Alcohol can worsen dizziness and lower blood pressure, so keep drinking moderate or avoid it when using vardenafil.

If you have heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent stroke, or other major health issues, talk to your doctor first. They’ll weigh the benefits against risks and suggest safe alternatives if needed.

Safe buying and alternatives

Only buy vardenafil from a licensed pharmacy with a real address and pharmacist contact. Legitimate sites require a prescription. Avoid sites that sell without asking for a prescription or offer suspiciously low prices — those meds may be fake or unsafe.

Alternatives include sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis). Each works a bit differently: sildenafil and vardenafil act for a few hours, while tadalafil can last up to 36 hours. Discuss options with your doctor to find the best fit for your health and lifestyle.

Bottom line: vardenafil can help when used correctly. Get a proper medical check, follow the dose, watch for dangerous interactions, and buy only from reputable sources. If something feels off, call your healthcare provider — quick action avoids bigger problems.