Levitra Drug Interactions (Cont.)

Levitra Interactions Explained

The following sections explain in detail the potentially negative interactions that can occur when Levitra is combined with any of the drugs listed above.
 
Alpha Blockers
In previous research studies, when alpha blockers and Levitra were used at the same time for people with high blood pressure or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), blood pressure decreased. Some people experienced lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting when standing up from either a sitting or lying position. Your healthcare provider may recommend a lower dosage of Levitra if you are also taking an alpha blocker.
 
Arrhythmia Medicine
People taking certain medicines to treat an abnormal heart rhythm should not take Levitra. These medications include quinidine, procainamide, amiodarone, and sotalol. Combining one of these medications with Levitra increases the risk of a very dangerous arrhythmia called QT prolongation.
 
Certain Antibiotics or Antifungals
Taking certain antibiotics and antifungals with Levitra can increase the level of Levitra in your blood, increasing your risk of side effects. If taking these medications together, you should talk with your healthcare provider about your recommended Levitra dosage. For people taking these medications, the dose may be limited to a maximum of Levitra 2.5 mg or 5 mg in a 24-hour period, depending on the particular drug and dosage.
 
Grapefruit Juice
Although studies have not been done to see if grapefruit juice interacts with Levitra, it is likely that grapefruit juice would increase the level of Levitra in your blood, increasing your risk of side effects. It may be advisable to avoid grapefruit juice while you are taking Levitra, until more information is available.
 
Nitrates
If you are taking nitrates, you should not use Levitra. This includes using recreational drugs called "poppers," which can contain amyl nitrate or butyl nitrate. Combining nitrates and Levitra can cause dangerously low blood pressure (hypotension).
 
Protease Inhibitors
Protease inhibitors can increase the level of Levitra in your blood, increasing your risk of side effects. You may need a lower Levitra dosage. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking Levitra with a protease inhibitor.
 
(Levitra Drug Interactions Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;