Vardenafil (Generic Levitra)

What is Generic Vardenafil (Levitra)?

Generic Levitra contains the same active ingredient as the brand version. It delivers the same effectiveness for erectile dysfunction while costing much less. In many cases, generic versions are half the price or lower compared to brand-name Levitra. Vardenafil is the generic form of Levitra, which has been discontinued. It offers men a proven and affordable treatment for erectile dysfunction. Clinical research supports its reliability. A study in the Canadian Urological Association Journal reported first-dose success rates of 81% for penetration and 70% for erection maintenance. The same study showed that vardenafil remains effective for 5 to 6 hours.

The price difference is significant. Generic vardenafil usually costs $4–40 per pill, while the discontinued brand Levitra was priced at $54–64 per dose. This makes treatment accessible to more men without reducing quality or safety. Several pharmaceutical companies manufacture generic vardenafil, including Fortune HealthCare, Centurion Laboratories, and others. Each provides consistent quality and competitive pricing. Generic vardenafil is available in both oral tablets and orally disintegrating tablets (ODT), giving patients flexibility in how they take the medicine.

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 a class of medications called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These drugs enhance the body’s natural erection process by blocking the PDE5 enzyme that 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 to the corpora cavernosa. PDE5 normally degrades cGMP, ending the erection. By inhibiting PDE5, vardenafil allows cGMP levels to remain elevated, maintaining blood vessel dilation and prolonged erections.

Vardenafil is more potent than sildenafil but has lower selectivity for other PDE isoforms compared to tadalafil. This enhanced potency allows for effective treatment at lower doses while maintaining similar side effect profiles. Sexual stimulation remains essential for vardenafil to work effectively. The medication enhances natural erectile responses but does not cause automatic erections or increase sexual desire. Vardenafil has a rapid onset of action, working as early as 10 minutes after oral administration. However, the typical onset time is 30–120 minutes, with a duration of 4–6 hours and a terminal half-life of more than 4 hours.

What Dosages of Vardenafil Are Available?

Vardenafil is available in multiple strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, 60mg, and 80mg tablets. Healthcare providers typically offer standard oral tablets and orally disintegrating tablets (ODT), with ODT available only in 10mg strength. Most patients start with 10mg taken 30–60 minutes before sexual activity, with adjustments based on response and tolerability. The maximum recommended frequency is once daily, and 20mg represents the highest recommended strength for patients requiring enhanced effectiveness.

A study published in the Canadian Urological Association Journal shows 85% reliability rates with 20mg dosing after 12 weeks of treatment, with effects maintaining consistency throughout the study period. Food intake may delay the onset by up to 1 hour with high-fat meals, similar to other PDE5 inhibitors.

Vardenafil vs Brand Levitra: Effectiveness and Cost Comparison

There is identical effectiveness between generic vardenafil and the discontinued brand Levitra. Both contain vardenafil hydrochloride as the active ingredient. Response rates, onset times, and duration of action remain consistent between generic and branded formulations. Cost represents the main advantage of generic versions.

Manufacturing differences affect appearance but not performance. Generic vardenafil tablets vary in color, shape, and markings depending on the manufacturer, unlike Levitra’s consistent appearance. These cosmetic variations don’t impact 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

Nausea occurs more frequently with vardenafil compared to other PDE5 inhibitors. Serious adverse events are rare but require immediate medical attention, including priapism (erections lasting over 4 hours), sudden vision loss (NAION), sudden hearing loss, and heart attack. Higher doses increase both common and serious side effect risks.

Drug Interactions and Contraindications

Do Not Combine:

• Nitrate medications (nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate, “poppers”)

Use With Caution:

• Alpha-blockers (tamsulosin, doxazosin)
• Antifungal medications (ketoconazole, itraconazole)
• HIV protease inhibitors (ritonavir, indinavir)
• Antibiotics (erythromycin, clarithromycin)
• Heart rhythm medications (QT prolongation risk)
• 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. Telehealth platforms like Fullhouse Pill provide safe, FDA-compliant access with discreet home delivery.

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 discontinued brand Levitra in clinical studies. Both contain vardenafil hydrochloride as the active ingredient and must meet FDA bioequivalence standards.

How much does generic vardenafil cost?

Generic vardenafil pricing ranges from $0.57 to $40 per pill depending on manufacturer, pharmacy, and dosage strength. Discount programs can lower costs to as little as $4–10 per dose.

Do I need a prescription for vardenafil?

Yes, a valid prescription is required. Legitimate telehealth providers can offer online consultations and prescriptions for vardenafil.

How long does vardenafil take to work?

Vardenafil begins working within 10 minutes to 1 hour after administration and remains effective for up to 5 hours.

What’s the difference between 10mg and 20mg vardenafil?

10mg is the standard starting dose, while 20mg provides stronger effects for men needing higher potency. Higher doses increase side effect risks.