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Levitra
From: £20.99
Vardenafil is the generic form of Levitra, containing the same active ingredient at equivalent strengths. It works within 25–60 minutes and lasts around 4–5 hours. Available in 5mg, 10mg and 20mg. A cost-effective alternative to branded Levitra, and a useful option for men who have not responded optimally to Sildenafil.
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Additional information
| Strength | 10mg, 20mg, 5mg |
|---|---|
| Quantity | 16, 32, 4, 8 |
Overview
Content Written by:
Hanifa Tai
Hanifa Tai
Role: Pharmacist & Content Writer
GPhC Number: 2074961
Content Published: 01/04/2026
Next Review: 01/04/2027
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Description
What Is Vardenafil?
Vardenafil is a prescription PDE5 inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction in adult men. It is the active ingredient in the branded medicine Levitra. Vardenafil enhances blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, supporting the body’s natural erectile response. It does not create an erection without arousal. It typically begins working within 25 to 60 minutes and remains effective for around 4 to 5 hours.
How Does It Work?
During sexual stimulation, nitric oxide is released into penile tissue, triggering production of cyclic GMP — a chemical messenger that relaxes smooth muscle within blood vessel walls. As these vessels widen, blood flows in creating firmness. Vardenafil temporarily blocks the PDE5 enzyme that breaks down cyclic GMP, allowing it to remain active for longer and improving erection quality.
Dosing & How to Take
Available in 5mg, 10mg and 20mg. Take 30–60 minutes before sexual activity. Can be taken with or without food, but a lighter stomach may allow faster onset. High-fat meals can delay absorption. Maximum one tablet per 24 hours.
Vardenafil vs Branded Levitra
Vardenafil contains the same active ingredient as Levitra at equivalent strengths. They are considered therapeutically equivalent when sourced from regulated UK pharmacies. Levitra is produced by Bayer. Generic vardenafil is manufactured by various licensed pharmaceutical companies after patent expiry. Differences are related to brand, packaging and cost — not effectiveness.
Vardenafil vs Sildenafil (Viagra)
Both are PDE5 inhibitors working via the same pathway. There is slight variation in chemical structure, minor differences in onset time for some patients, and individual variation in side effect profile. Some men who do not respond optimally to Sildenafil may respond better to Vardenafil, although overall success rates are similar.
FAQ’s
Q: How quickly does Vardenafil work?
A: Vardenafil may begin working in as little as 25 minutes for some men. Allowing 30 to 60 minutes is generally recommended for optimal effect.
Q: How long does Vardenafil last?
A: Vardenafil usually remains effective for approximately 4 to 5 hours. Its duration is comparable to Sildenafil and shorter than Tadalafil.
Q: Is Vardenafil the same as Levitra?
A: Yes. Levitra contains vardenafil as its active ingredient. Generic vardenafil contains the same active ingredient at equivalent strengths. They are considered clinically equivalent when sourced from regulated UK pharmacies.
Q: Can I take Vardenafil if Sildenafil didn’t work for me?
A: Possibly. Some men who do not respond optimally to Sildenafil may respond better to Vardenafil due to slight differences in chemical structure. Your pharmacist can advise based on your history.
Q: Does food affect Vardenafil?
A: A high-fat meal can delay absorption and slow onset. Taking it on a lighter stomach is recommended for faster effect.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
These are usually mild and resolve as the medicine leaves the body:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Nasal congestion
- Dizziness
- Indigestion
Rare but Serious Side Effects — Seek Urgent Medical Attention
- Chest pain — seek urgent medical help
- Sudden loss of vision — seek urgent medical help
- Sudden hearing loss — seek urgent medical help
- Erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism) — seek urgent medical help
Do Not Take If You:
- Use nitrates (medication or recreational poppers)
- Have been advised to avoid sexual activity for cardiac reasons
- Have severe low blood pressure
- Have recently had a heart attack or stroke
- Have certain inherited eye conditions
Cardiovascular Note: Sexual activity places moderate physical strain on the cardiovascular system. If you can climb two flights of stairs without chest pain or severe breathlessness, sexual activity is generally considered safe. Men with unstable heart disease should be assessed before treatment.
