What is Generic Vardenafil (Levitra)?
Generic vardenafil is a medication that contains the same active ingredient as the discontinued brand Levitra. It uses vardenafil hydrochloride in identical concentrations and works through the same mechanism to treat erectile dysfunction. The FDA requires all generics to prove bioequivalence, ensuring the same absorption, distribution, and effectiveness as the original brand.
The FDA first approved vardenafil in August 2003 with the launch of brand Levitra, produced by Bayer Healthcare. In 2021, Bayer discontinued all Levitra formulations. Since then, several pharmaceutical companies have continued producing FDA-approved generic versions under strict oversight.
The main differences between brand Levitra and generic vardenafil are cosmetic and cost-related. Generic tablets may vary in shape, size, or color depending on the manufacturer. Despite these changes, the active ingredient and dosage remain identical, ensuring the same therapeutic effect.
How Does Vardenafil Work for Erectile Dysfunction?
Vardenafil belongs to the PDE5 inhibitor class. It enhances the body’s natural erection process by blocking the PDE5 enzyme, which normally breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).
During sexual arousal, nitric oxide release in the penis stimulates cGMP production, causing smooth muscle relaxation and increased blood flow. PDE5 normally degrades cGMP, ending the erection. By inhibiting PDE5, vardenafil maintains elevated cGMP levels, sustaining erections.
Vardenafil is more potent than sildenafil and works effectively at lower doses. Sexual stimulation is essential; vardenafil does not cause automatic erections or increase sexual desire. Onset can be as early as 10 minutes, typically 30-120 minutes, with duration of 4-6 hours and a terminal half-life of more than 4 hours.
What Dosages of Vardenafil Are Available?
- 2.5 mg tablets
- 5 mg tablets
- 10 mg tablets
- 20 mg tablets (maximum recommended strength)
Orally disintegrating tablets (ODT) are available in 10 mg only. Most patients start with 10 mg taken 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. Maximum recommended frequency is once daily. Food may delay onset by up to 1 hour.
Vardenafil vs Brand Levitra: Effectiveness and Cost Comparison
| Medication Type | Cost Per Dose | Monthly Cost (4 doses) |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Levitra (discontinued) | $54-64 | $216-256 |
| Generic Vardenafil | $4-40 | $16-160 |
Generic tablets may differ in appearance but not in therapeutic effectiveness.
What Are Common Side Effects of Vardenafil?
Common Side Effects:
- Headache and dizziness
- Facial flushing and warmth
- Nasal congestion and runny nose
- Indigestion and dyspepsia
- Back pain and muscle aches
- Flu-like symptoms
- Nausea (more frequent with vardenafil)
Serious Side Effects (Immediate Attention Required):
- Priapism (erections lasting over 4 hours)
- Sudden vision loss (NAION)
- Sudden hearing loss
- Heart attack
Drug Interactions and Contraindications
Do Not Combine:
- Nitrate medications (nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate, “poppers”)
Use With Caution:
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (ritonavir, ketoconazole, itraconazole, indinavir)
- Alpha-blockers (tamsulosin, doxazosin)
- Antifungal medications (ketoconazole, itraconazole)
- HIV protease inhibitors (ritonavir, indinavir)
- Antibiotics (erythromycin, clarithromycin)
- Heart rhythm medications (risk of QT prolongation)
- Blood pressure medications may enhance hypotensive effects
Contraindications:
- Unstable angina
- Recent heart attack
- Severe heart failure
- QT prolongation
How to Buy Vardenafil Online Safely?
- Requires a valid prescription from licensed healthcare providers
- Verify licensed telehealth evaluation
- Purchase through accredited pharmacies only
- Ensure patient privacy and proper prescription requirements
Counterfeit ED medications pose serious health risks. Fake products may contain harmful ingredients or incorrect doses.
Generic Vardenafil Product Options
- Available as standard oral tablets (2.5, 5, 10, 20 mg)
- Orally disintegrating tablets (ODT) in 10 mg only
- Manufacturers include Centurion Laboratories, Fortune Healthcare, and others
Frequently Asked Questions
Is generic vardenafil as effective as brand Levitra?
Yes, generic vardenafil demonstrates identical effectiveness to brand Levitra with 81% first-dose success rates.
How much does generic vardenafil cost?
Pricing ranges from $4-40 per pill depending on manufacturer, pharmacy, and dosage strength. Discount cards may reduce the cost to $4-10 per tablet.
Do I need a prescription for vardenafil?
Yes, vardenafil requires a valid prescription. No legitimate OTC versions exist.
How long does vardenafil take to work?
Vardenafil begins working 10 minutes to 1 hour after administration and remains effective for 4-5 hours.
What’s the difference between 10mg and 20mg vardenafil?
10mg is standard starting dose; 20mg is the maximum recommended strength for enhanced effectiveness. Higher doses increase risk of side effects.
