Levitra and Saquinavir

In the database of official manuals used in the service creation an interaction registered by statistical results of studies was found, which can either lead to negative consequences for the patient health or strengthen a mutual positive effect. A doctor should be consulted to address the issue of joint drug administration.

Talk to your doctor before using vardenafil together with saquinavir. Combining these medications may significantly increase the blood levels and effects of vardenafil. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Contact your doctor if your condition changes or you experience nausea, shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, visual disturbances, ringing in the ears, vision or hearing loss, chest pain or tightness, irregular heartbeat, and/or priapism (prolonged and painful erection unrelated to sexual activity), as these may be signs and symptoms of excessive vardenafil levels. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

ADJUST DOSE: Coadministration with saquinavir may significantly increase the plasma concentrations of vardenafil. The mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4, the isoenzyme primarily responsible for the metabolic clearance of vardenafil. The risk of vardenafil-associated adverse effects may be increased, such as hypotension, syncope, visual disturbances, and priapism. Theoretically, coadministration of agents that can prolong the QT interval may result in additive effects and increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsade de pointes and sudden death.

MANAGEMENT: Caution and dose reductions of vardenafil are recommended. If vardenafil is to be used in patients taking ritonavir-boosted saquinavir therapy, the dose should not exceed 2.5 mg every 72 hours. Patients should be monitored for adverse events during concomitant use, and advised to promptly notify their doctor if they experience pain or tightness in the chest or jaw, irregular heartbeat, nausea, shortness of breath, visual disturbances, syncope, or prolonged erection (greater than 4 hours).

Levitra

Generic Name: vardenafil

Brand name: Levitra, Staxyn

Synonyms: n.a.

What is Levitra?

Saquinavir

Generic Name: saquinavir

Brand name: Invirase, Fortovase

Synonyms: n.a.

What is Saquinavir?