Vardenafil works fast for many men — sometimes in 30 minutes — and lasts about four to five hours.

If you're researching options or shopping online, here’s a practical guide to how it works, how to use it safely, and how to avoid fakes.

How it works, use, and safety

Vardenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor that helps erections by boosting blood flow to the penis when you are sexually stimulated. It doesn't increase desire; you still need arousal for it to work. Compared with sildenafil, vardenafil often starts working sooner and can feel stronger at similar doses for some men.

Most doctors start patients on 5 or 10 mg, taken about 25 to 60 minutes before sex. If you need more effect and tolerate it well, doses can be adjusted under medical supervision. High-fat meals can delay absorption, so take on a lighter stomach for quicker results. Don't crush or split tablets unless the label or pharmacist says it's safe.

Common side effects include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, and indigestion. Less common but serious reactions can include sudden vision or hearing loss and chest pain; seek immediate help if these occur. Never combine vardenafil with nitrates (often used for chest pain) or with "poppers" — the mix can cause dangerous blood pressure drops. Also watch for interactions with alpha-blockers, certain antifungals, and HIV protease inhibitors; they can raise vardenafil levels and need dose changes.

If you have unstable heart disease, recent stroke, severe liver problems, or very low blood pressure, vardenafil may not be safe. Older adults often start at lower doses. If you are unsure, ask your doctor for a heart check before starting.

Buying online, storage, and practical tips

Only buy from licensed pharmacies that require a prescription. Look for clear contact info, a physical address, and verifiable pharmacist credentials. Avoid "no prescription" offers or deals that seem too cheap; they are often fake or unsafe. Check for third-party seals, recent customer reviews, and use a credit card for purchase to get fraud protection.

Keep tablets in the original container at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Dispose unused medicine at a take-back program or follow local pharmacy guidance.

Before you start, make a short list to take to the doctor: current medicines (especially nitrates, alpha-blockers, antifungals, HIV treatments), heart history, and any vision problems. Ask whether a generic is right for you — generic vardenafil has the same active ingredient but may come from different manufacturers. If you travel, bring the original packaging and a copy of your prescription. Avoid grapefruit juice for at least 48 hours before and after a dose because it can raise drug levels. Drinking lots of alcohol can make dizziness and low blood pressure worse and reduce erection quality, so keep drinking light when using vardenafil. Ask follow-up questions.

Keep a small log of dose, timing, and effects for the first few uses. Share this with your prescriber to fine-tune dose and avoid unnecessary side effects, and document improvements.