Article written and medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander J. Carter, MD, FACS – Board-Certified Urologist, Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Last updated: November 17, 2025
What is Levitra (Vardenafil) Used For?
Levitra (vardenafil HCl) is an FDA-approved phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It is effective in ED associated with diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, spinal cord injury, and post-prostatectomy.
Dosage and Treatment Regimens (2025 AUA/EAU Guidelines)
Standard Dosing Recommendations
| Population | Starting Dose | Usual Dose | Maximum Dose | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Most men ≥18 years | 10 mg | 10–20 mg | 20 mg once daily | 25–60 min before activity |
| Age ≥65 years | 5 mg | 5–10 mg | 20 mg | Same |
| Hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B) | 5 mg | 5–10 mg | 10 mg | Same |
| Concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors | 2.5–5 mg | 5 mg | 5 mg | Same |
Onset and Duration
| Parameter | Vardenafil |
|---|---|
| Onset of action | 25–60 minutes (as early as 10–15 min in some) |
| Duration of effect | 4–5 hours (up to 8 hours in some patients) |
| Food effect | High-fat meal may delay absorption |
Comparative Table: PDE5 Inhibitors (2025 Data)
| Drug | Onset | Duration | Tmax | Visual Side Effects | Success Rate (IIEF-EF) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vardenafil (Levitra) | 25–60 min | 4–5 h | 0.5–1 h | Very low | 68–78 % |
| Sildenafil (Viagra) | 30–60 min | 4 h | 0.5–1 h | Blue tint (3–11 %) | 65–75 % |
| Tadalafil (Cialis) | 30–120 min | Up to 36 h | 2 h | Almost none | 70–82 % |
| Avanafil (Stendra) | 15–30 min | 6 h | 0.5 h | Very low | 65–75 % |
Mechanism of Action
Vardenafil is a potent, selective PDE5 inhibitor (IC50 ≈ 0.7 nM) that prevents cGMP breakdown, leading to smooth-muscle relaxation and increased blood flow in the corpus cavernosum during sexual stimulation.
Safety Profile & Side Effects (2025)
Common (>2 %): headache (15 %), flushing (11 %), nasal congestion (9 %), dyspepsia (4 %), dizziness (2 %).
Serious (rare): priapism, sudden hearing loss, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), cardiovascular events.
Official Sources
- FDA Label (2024): FDA Levitra Prescribing Information
- EMA SmPC: EMA Levitra Product Information
- PubMed – Long-term safety of vardenafil (PROVEN study): PubMed 34591877
Real Patient Reviews (2024–2025)
“Works in 20 minutes for me. No blue vision like with Viagra. Reliable every time.”
“After prostate surgery, only vardenafil gives me firm erections. 20 mg is perfect.”
“Faster onset than Cialis daily. Mild headache first few times, now none.”
“Diabetes patient – vardenafil works when sildenafil stopped being effective.”
“Started on 5 mg at age 65, now 10 mg. No side effects and great results.”
“20 mg works even after heavy dinner. Reliable 4–5 hour window.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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