Filitra, which contains vardenafil (a PDE5 inhibitor), can interact with several other medications, and it’s important to consider these interactions to avoid potential side effects or complications. Here are some key medication interactions to be aware of when taking Filitra:
Nitrates: Filitra should never be taken with nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate), which are used for chest pain or heart conditions. The combination can cause a significant and dangerous drop in blood pressure, leading to fainting, heart attack, or stroke.
Alpha-blockers: Alpha-blockers (e.g., doxazosin, tamsulosin), often used for high blood pressure or prostate issues, can interact with Filitra by lowering blood pressure. When taken together, Filitra may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of alpha-blockers, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Your doctor may adjust the dosage of these medications or advise monitoring.
Other ED Medications: Filitra should not be taken with other erectile dysfunction medications (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil, avanafil). This can increase the risk of side effects, including a prolonged erection (priapism), or extreme drops in blood pressure.
Antifungal Medications: Certain antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) can increase vardenafil levels in the blood, enhancing the risk of side effects such as headache, dizziness, and low blood pressure.
Antibiotics: Some antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin) may also increase the concentration of Filitra in the blood, raising the likelihood of side effects.
HIV Protease Inhibitors: Medications like ritonavir and saquinavir, which are used to treat HIV, may increase the levels of vardenafil in the body, potentially intensifying side effects.
Blood Pressure Medications: If you are taking medications for high blood pressure (e.g., beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers), Filitra can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects. This may require dose adjustments or close monitoring of blood pressure.
Grapefruit: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can increase the blood concentration of vardenafil, raising the risk of side effects like dizziness, headache, and low blood pressure.
Medications for Seizures: Some medications used to treat seizures (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin) may decrease the effectiveness of Filitra by lowering its concentration in the blood.
Other Medications: Certain antidepressants, antihypertensives, or medications for stomach ulcers (e.g., cimetidine) may interact with Filitra. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you're taking.
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