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Ubayd Ali

Authored by

Ubayd Ali

Superintendent Pharmacist

Registration Number: 2219322

NHS Pharmacist and founding member of HEBA, with years of experience in healthcare across innovative organisations.
Sufyan Tahir

Reviewed by

Sufyan Tahir

Clinical Governance Lead

Registration Number: 2221275

Review Date 30 April 2026
Next Review 30 April 2027
Published on 30 April 2026
Last Update 30 April 2026

What is Vardenail?

Vardenafil is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which help improve blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Vardenafil relaxes the blood vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow in when a man is sexually aroused. This helps achieve and maintain an erection—but it only works with sexual stimulation.

There are many reasons why a man may experience ED or impotence. These include factors or conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, smoking, alcoholism, sleeping disorders, poor diet, high blood pressure, stress, depression, anxiety, low energy, or relationship problems. The reasons may be physical or psychological. It is most common in men aged 50 years and above, but it affects men at any age – even young men.

How does Vardenafil work?

Vardenafil works by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme, helping to maintain increased blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. This helps men achieve and maintain an erection suitable for sexual activity. Vardenafil typically starts to work within 25–60 minutes and its effects can last for up to 5 hours. It requires sexual arousal to be effective and is prescribed following a medical assessment to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you.

Is Vardenafil right for me?

Vardenafil has been shown in studies to produce similar effects to sildenafil, although the effects can last slightly longer (5 - 6 hours as opposed to 4 hours). Vardenafil was also shown to be as well-tolerated as sildenafil with most men experiencing no notable side effects. Vardenafil has been shown to be particularly effective in men who suffer from diabetes and men over 65 years of age.

How to use Vardenafil:

Vardenafil is administered orally as needed, approximately 25–60 minutes before sexual activity

The recommended starting dose is 10 mg, adjustable to 5 mg or 20 mg according to response and tolerability

Maximum dosing frequency of once daily

Dose adjustments may be required in elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment.

  • Swallow tablet whole with water
  • Can be taken with or without food
  • High-fat meals may delay onset of action

Caution:

  • Only effective with sexual stimulation
  • Do not exceed one dose per day
  • Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it may increase plasma levels
  • Use caution with alcohol due to potential additive hypotensive effects

Vardenafil is generally well tolerated. The most commonly reported adverse reactions are:

  • Headache
  • Flushing
  • Nasal congestion (rhinitis)
  • Dyspepsia (indigestion)
  • Dizziness

 

You may not be suitable for vardenafil if:

  • You have recently had a heart attack
  • You are over 75 and are taking anti-fungal medicine
  • You have kidney dialysis
  • You have a heart problem
  • You are taking medication for an enlarged prostate gland
  • You are taking medication for arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
  • You are taking medication for high blood pressure
  • You have a liver problem
  • You are taking medications for HIV
  • You have recently had a stroke

Other medicines and Vardenafil

  • Concomitant use with nitrates or nitric oxide donors
  • Hypersensitivity to vardenafil or excipients
  • Patients for whom sexual activity is inadvisable (e.g. certain cardiovascular conditions)
  • Concomitant use with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g. ketoconazole, ritonavir)

Vardenafil with food, drink and alcohol

You can take Vardenafil with or without food, but preferably not after a heavy or high-fat meal as this may delay the effect. Don’t drink grapefruit juice when you use Vardenafil. It can interfere with the usual effect of the medicine. Alcoholic drink can make erection difficulties worse.

Patient Information Leaflet

Erectile Dysfunction

Verified customer reviews

Frequently asked questions

  • What is Vardenafil and what is it used for?

    Vardenafil is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping you achieve and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated.









  • How does Vardenafil work?

    Vardenafil belongs to a group of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors. It relaxes the blood vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow during sexual arousal, which helps produce an erection.

  • How long does Vardenafil take to work?

    Vardenafil typically starts working within 30 to 60 minutes. Sexual stimulation is required for it to be effective.

  • How long does Vardenafil last?

    The effects of Vardenafil can last for 4 to 6 hours, although this may vary depending on the individual.

  • What dose of Vardenafil should I take?

    The usual starting dose is 10mg, taken before sexual activity. Depending on how effective it is and any side effects, your prescriber may adjust the dose to 5mg or 20mg.

  • How often can I take Vardenafil?

    You should only take Vardenafil once per day. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

  • Can I take Vardenafil with food or alcohol?

    Vardenafil can be taken with or without food. However, a heavy or fatty meal may delay its effects. Alcohol can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects.

  • Is Vardenafil the same as Levitra?

    Yes, Vardenafil is the active ingredient in the branded medication Levitra. Generic Vardenafil works in the same way but is usually more affordable.

  • What are the common side effects of Vardenafil?

    Common side effects may include:

    • Headache
    • Flushing
    • Dizziness
    • Indigestion
    • Nasal congestion

    These are usually mild and temporary.

  • Who should not take Vardenafil?

    Vardenafil may not be suitable if you:

    • Take nitrates for chest pain
    • Have serious heart or liver problems
    • Have low blood pressure
    • Have been advised to avoid sexual activity

    Always complete a medical consultation before use.

  • Can I take Vardenafil with other erectile dysfunction treatments?

    No, you should not combine Vardenafil with other ED medications such as Sildenafil or Tadalafil, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

  • Is Vardenafil available on the NHS or online in the UK?

    Vardenafil may be prescribed on the NHS in certain cases, but it is more commonly available through private prescriptions, including regulated UK online pharmacies after a consultation.

  • Do I need a prescription for Vardenafil?

    Yes, Vardenafil is a prescription-only medication in the UK, so you’ll need to complete an online consultation reviewed by a qualified prescriber.

  • Is Vardenafil safe?

    Vardenafil is safe for most men when prescribed appropriately. It has been widely studied and approved for treating erectile dysfunction, but it should only be used under medical guidance.

  • What should I do if Vardenafil doesn’t work?

    If Vardenafil doesn’t work for you:

    • Ensure you allowed enough time for it to take effect
    • Try it on a few separate occasions
    • Avoid heavy meals beforehand

    If it still isn’t effective, speak to a prescriber about alternative treatments.

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