Levitra Overdose
For most people, the effective daily dose of Levitra (vardenafil) is 10 mg taken orally, on as needed basis. Individuals taking this medication are recommended not to take more than one pill within 24 hours. Like other erectile dysfunction medications, known as PDE5 inhibitors, Levitra should not be taken more than once a day.
Although Levitra lasts for only about four to six hours, taking more than one dose within a 24-hour period can cause an overdose. Furthermore, there are a number of factors that can affect the amount of time Levitra stays in the body. These factors include age (older than 65 years), other underlying medical conditions (liver or kidney impairment), and use of certain medications. The diet, particularly high-fat meal, can also affect how long the body metabolizes or breaks down the medication. Because of these varying factors, it is quite difficult to predict how long a drug will last in the body. To be safe, health experts recommend limiting daily intake of Levitra to one pill.
Levitra Overdose Symptoms
Taking too much Levitra can lead to certain physical symptoms that include:
- Back pain
- Muscle pain
- Vision changes
- Headaches
Aside from these overdose symptoms, taking too much Levitra also increases the risk of serious side effects that include:
- chest pain or heavy feeling
- nausea
- swelling of lower extremities
- dizziness
- fainting
- seizures
- prolonged, painful erections
If you experience any of these adverse effects, you should discontinue taking Levitra and consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Treatment for a Levitra Overdose
Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose of Levitra or if you have taken more than the recommended amount. Contact your healthcare provider or the local poison control center for proper treatment. In case of severe overdose, especially with loss of consciousness, seek emergency medical help.
A Levitra overdose can lead to life-threatening complications when not properly treated. Do not underestimate the seriousness of an overdose, even if there are no visible symptoms. Seek medical attention as soon as an overdose is suspected.
Preventing an Overdose
Take the drug exactly as prescribed. Do not adjust your dose without consulting your healthcare provider. Take note that Levitra will not instantly cause an erection. Usually, it requires at least 30 minutes for the drug to work. Most importantly, sexual stimulation is necessary for an erection. This medication only helps men achieve and sustain an erection.
It is also important to avoid substances that can potentially interfere with the metabolism and mechanism of action of Levitra. For instance, patients are advised to avoid consuming grapefruit and grapefruit juice which are known to affect the excretion of Levitra from the body. If you have taken grapefruit juice, you should avoid using Levitra for at least three days.
Do not combine Levitra with other erectile dysfunction medications, such as tadalafil (Cialis) and sildenafil (Viagra). Lastly, never share your prescription with others. Your dose may not be appropriate for others.
