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Levitra: Risks And Damages

Levitra: Risks And Damages

Introduction
 
 
Levitra is the brand name of vardenafil which is used to treat erectile dysfunction in men.  It is first marketed jointly by the Bayer Pharmaceutical Company and GlascoSmithKline.  Bayer has since gained control of the promotional rights.  It was approved by the FDA in 2003.
 
 
What does Levitra do?
 
 
Medications such as Levitra inhibit the PED5 enzyme which allows more blood flow to the penile area and relaxes arteries.  In doing so, it treat erectile dysfunction and may also be effective in treating premature ejaculation.  It is available in doses of 2.5, 5, 10 and 20mg and should be taken about 1 – 2 hours before sexual activity.  The tablet automatically dissolves on contact with the tongue and should not be taken more than once in 24 hours.
 
 
What are some risks of taking Levitra?
 
 
There are common side effects of taking Levitra, including aches and pains and the widening of blood vessels, but these symptoms tend to relax after a few hours.  Patents taking nitrate medication can also experience an unsafe drop in blood pressure and this fact is noted prominently in Levitra advertisements.
Men taking nitrates for chest pain may cause a drug interaction with Levitra which will create an unsafe drop in blood pressure and should not take this mediation.  Sexual activity may also strain the heart so males with heart conditions should take adequate precautions before engaging in sexual activity.  Levitra may also pose an increased risk of heart attacks in individuals with risk factors.
 
 
In some rare occurrences, Priapism, or an erection lasting more than four hours may occur which is an emergency that requires the patient to see a doctor immediately.  All PED5 inhibitors have been discovered to potentially cause hearing loss leading to an FDA warning in 2007.
 
 
Am I eligible for damages from taking Levitra?
 
 
Although Levitra remains on the market, one may be able to prove that they were not made sufficiently aware of the dangers associated with taking the drug.  In these situations, you may make the case for misleading advertising, although most issues with Levitra are carefully explained in their advertising.  You may have a better case if your doctor prescribed Levitra without noting the potential danger of taking the drug and its permanent side effects.  Some permanent but rare side effects include blindness and hearing loss.  If you have taken Levitra and were not informed of potentially damaging side effects, an attorney will be able to help you build a case for damages so long as it is filed within the jurisdiction’s statue of limitations.