section name header

Pronunciation

var-DEN-a-fil

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification:erectile dysfunction agents

Pharmacologic Classification: phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors

Indications

REMS

Action

Therapeutic Effects:

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: 15% absorbed following oral administration; absorption is rapid.

Distribution: Extensive tissue distribution; penetrates semen.

Protein Binding: 95%.

Metabolism/Excretion: Mostly metabolized by the liver via the CYP3A4 isoenzyme and to a lesser extent by the CYP2C isoenzyme. M1 metabolite has anti-erectile dysfunction activity. Parent drug and metabolites are mostly excreted in feces. 2–6% renally eliminated.

Half-life: 4–6 hr.

Time/Action Profile

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
POrapid0.5–2 hr4 hr

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

Derm: flushing.

EENT: HEARING LOSS, rhinitis, sinusitis, VISION LOSS.

GI: dyspepsia, nausea.

GU: priapism.

Neuro: headache, amnesia, dizziness.
Misc: flu syndrome.

Interactions

Drug-Drug:

Route/Dosage

The tablets and orally disintegrating tablets are not interchangeable; the orally disintegrating tablets provide a higher level of systemic exposure compared to the tablets

Tablets

Hepatic Impairment

Orally Disintegrating Tablets

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

Canadian Brand Names

Levitra, Staxyn