Levitra mechanism of action

Levitra’s main component is vardenafil – a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterases (PDEs) with the prior selectivity for PDE type 5. PDE type 5 is the chief isoenzyme required in the metabolism of cGMP to GMP in the corpora cavernosa of the penile tissue.

Vardenafil enhances the nitric oxide effects by restricting PDE type 5 mediated hydrolysis of cGMP.  The increase of cGMP happens with sexual stimulation. The medication improves the generation of cGMP, but without sexual stimulation no effect on sexual function will be achieved.

The medication has shown moderate peripheral vasodilation during clinical studies. This vasodilation leads to insignificant increase in the heart rate if the medication is taken in the prescribed dosages.

Vardenafil has lower likeness than Sildenafil (Viagra) for PDE type 5 receptor in the retina, still it may cause visual changes in patients with certain eye conditions.