PDE5 inhibitor
Vardenafil with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Vardenafil (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 PDE5 inhibitor 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 Vardenafil 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 Vardenafil 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 Vardenafil regimen.
Will antibiotics make Vardenafil stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Vardenafil 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.
Products containing Vardenafil
More on Vardenafil
- With alcoholVardenafil and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Vardenafil be taken with food?
- Side effectsVardenafil side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideVardenafil dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Vardenafil start working?
- DurationHow long does Vardenafil last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.