Levitra with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Levitra (Vardenafil). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Vardenafil at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Erectile Dysfunction (ED) agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Vardenafil at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Vardenafil, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Levitra is co-administered. Adjusted 5mg, 10mg, 20mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Levitra during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Vardenafil is metabolised and may need a temporary 5mg, 10mg, 20mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Levitra regimen.
Will antibiotics make Levitra stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Levitra efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Vardenafil levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
More on Levitra
- With alcoholLevitra and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Levitra be taken with food?
- Side effectsLevitra side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideLevitra dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Levitra start working?
- DurationHow long does Levitra last?
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