Why can using levitra cause effects in other parts of the body?

Levitra is designed to prevent the operation of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) which is specific to the arteries leading into the penis. Unfortunately, there are eleven types of PDE, each regulating the arteries in a different part of the body. Although levitra is intended to avoid affecting these other types, some men do find adverse effects.

Can everyone use levitra?

As with any powerful prescription only medication, some men should not take levitra or should only take it in reduced dose. Older men should take a reduced dose and everyone who has problems with their blood pressure, clotting or diseases affecting the blood vessels such as arteriosclerosis should take medical advice before beginning the use of levitra. Because levitra causes a loss of blood pressure, you should also avoid any other drug that has the same effect. This includes a range of drugs based on nitrates, alpha blockers and the more everyday alcohol and tobacco. These combinations can be particularly dangerous if you have recently had a stroke or heart attack. Because of the crossover effect on phosphodiesterase (PDE), there can also be problems with eyesight so do not take levitra if you have glaucoma or any other serious eye disorder.

What are the main side effects?

The majority of men do not experience any side effects so long as they stay with the dosage prescribed and do not combine levitra with any other drugs. The few that are adversely affected find those effects mild and they pass quickly, namely:

• headache;
• stomach upset;
• a flushing of the face and neck;
• a stuffy nose; or
• back pain.

In more rare cases, these more serious symptoms should be treated as a medical emergency:

• a painful erection that lasts an unnatural length of time;
• shortness of breath, chest pain and a racing heart;
• sudden loss of vision or hearing;
• fainting; or
• seizures.