Vardenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence which is the inability to attain or keep an erection, in men. Vardenafil is in a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors. It works by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. This improved blood flow can cause an erection. Vardenafil doesn’t cure erectile dysfunction (ED) or increase sexual desire. Vardenafil doesn’t stop pregnancy or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Sexual stimulation that brings on the increase in size of and erection brings about the making and release of nitric oxide in the penis. Nitric oxide then activates the enzyme, guanylate cyclase to make cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). The cGMP is primarily responsible for increasing and decreasing the size of the blood vessels moving blood to and from the penis, respectively. Vardenafil prevents an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-5 from destroying cGMP so that cGMP persists longer. The longer cGMP persists, the more prolonged the engorgement of the penis. Vardenafil was approved by the FDA in August, 2003.

There are reported cases, though unusual, of loss of hearing when taking phosphodiesterae inhibitors like vardenafil. Symptoms include ringing in the ears and dizziness.