Filitra Professional is a prescription medicine containing Vardenafil 20mg. Belonging to the PDE5 inhibitor class, this medicine targets a specific enzyme pathway in the body. This medicine is prescribed specifically to adult men in whom erectile dysfunction has been clinically identified. During sexual stimulation, penile blood flow is increased through the action. of this medicine. Neither sexual desire nor protection against sexually transmitted infections is provided by this medicine.
Several brand names are associated with Vardenafil, which a doctor or pharmacist may refer to during a consultation. Among the available branded options, Filitra Professional may be suggested by a registered healthcare professional.
At various stages of life, a significant number of men are affected by erectile dysfunction. Widely recognised as a common condition, it responds well to treatment when appropriate medical guidance is sought.
Each tablet of Filitra Professional is formulated with 20mg of Vardenafil as its active constituent. This medicine falls within the phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor group, acting selectively on a key enzyme. The reference UK brand Levitra may be better known to some patients. This is completely normal as they contain the same active ingredient.
Written to support informed decision-making, this guide addresses how Filitra Professional functions and what patients should know. Uses, safety guidance, possible side effects, and appropriate times to contact a doctor are all addressed within this guide.
What Is Filitra Professional?
As a prescription-only medicine (POM), Filitra Professional is supplied exclusively to adult men with a confirmed diagnosis of erectile dysfunction. Vardenafil 20mg serves as the active constituent in every tablet.
The tablet is formulated to disintegrate rapidly upon administration. Because it breaks down on the tongue within moments, no water is required to take it.
Medicine Detail Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor |
| Active Ingredient | Vardenafil |
| Strength | 20mg |
| Tablet Form | Rapidly disintegrating (orodispersible) tablet |
| Prescription Status | Prescription-only medicine (POM) |
| Therapeutic Use | Erectile dysfunction in adult men |
| Reference UK Brand | Levitra |
Filitra Professional is not a cure for erectile dysfunction. An erection is supported only when sexual stimulation is present.
Sexual desire remains entirely unaffected by this medicine. It also does not prevent pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
How Vardenafil Works in the Body
Vardenafil disrupts the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). This disruption removes the restriction that limits blood flow to the penis. Under normal circumstances, this enzyme acts to limit circulation within penile tissue.
Once PDE5 is blocked, blood vessels in the penis are able to relax and dilate. This increases blood flow during sexual stimulation.
Greater blood flow into the penile tissue helps produce and maintain an erection. The medicine only works when the patient is sexually stimulated. Without arousal being present, no erection is produced by this medicine.
Rapid absorption into the bloodstream occurs following ingestion of Vardenafil. The orodispersible format of Filitra Professional may act faster than a standard tablet. Always follow your doctor’s specific guidance on timing.
When Doctors Prescribe Filitra Professional
Adult men in whom erectile dysfunction has been clinically diagnosed are the intended recipients of this prescription. Difficulty achieving or sustaining an erection of sufficient firmness for sexual activity characterises this condition.
Whether rooted in physical health, mental wellbeing, or an interplay of both, erectile dysfunction can arise from a range of underlying factors. Among the most common physical causes are diabetes, raised blood pressure, and conditions affecting the cardiovascular system. A GP or specialist will assess the underlying cause before prescribing treatment.
On an as-needed basis, the tablet is best taken approximately 60 minutes before sexual activity is anticipated. Within any 24-hour window, one dose is the maximum that should be taken.
Based on overall health and any concurrent medicines, the frequency of use may be adjusted by your doctor. At all times, careful adherence to the dosage instructions printed on the prescription label is required.
Benefits of Filitra Professional
Effective treatment for erectile dysfunction
Vardenafil’s effectiveness in addressing erectile dysfunction has been established through clinical evidence, making it a well-supported treatment choice. Clinical studies reviewed by regulatory bodies such as the MHRA support its effectiveness in helping a significant proportion of men achieve and maintain erections. It is one of several PDE5 inhibitors approved for this use by the MHRA.
Fast-acting orodispersible format
Because it dissolves on the tongue, no water is needed when taking Filitra Professional. Men who struggle to swallow conventional tablets will find the disintegrating formulation a particularly convenient choice. A faster onset of action may be achieved owing to the rapid dissolving nature of this tablet format.
Flexible use as needed
Filitra Professional is taken only when needed, not daily. This gives patients flexibility and reduces unnecessary medicine exposure. Food is not required before or after taking this medicine, offering added flexibility for the patient.
Supports confidence and quality of life
Erectile dysfunction can significantly affect mental wellbeing and relationships. Restoring confidence and enhancing quality of life are among the outcomes that effective treatment can bring about. Always discuss the psychological aspects of erectile dysfunction with your doctor, too.
Alternative Medicine Doctors May Consider
A GP or specialist may review whether an alternative PDE5 inhibitor better suits the individual’s clinical profile and overall health needs. Sildenafil (Viagra) is one commonly prescribed alternative in the UK. For those exploring alternatives, Tadalafil (Cialis) provides the choice of both daily and as-needed dosing.
Each medicine in this class works in a similar way. However, they differ in how long they last and how quickly they act. The most suitable treatment option will be selected by your doctor after considering your health and daily routine.
Speak to your GP or pharmacist to learn more about PDE5 inhibitor treatments and available options.
Possible Side Effects
Like any medicine, Filitra Professional has the potential to produce side effects in some individuals. Side effects are not experienced by all patients, and those that do occur are typically mild, resolving as the body adapts to treatment.
| COMMON SIDE EFFECTS | LESS COMMON BUT MORE SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS |
|---|---|
| Headache | Sudden vision changes or loss of vision |
| Flushing (redness or warmth in the face) | Sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears |
| Stuffy or runny nose | Chest pain or irregular heartbeat |
| Indigestion or upset stomach | A prolonged or painful erection lasting more than four hours (priapism) |
| Dizziness | Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
Upon experiencing any serious side effect, the medicine must be stopped without delay. Where symptoms are severe, 999 should be called or urgent medical attention sought immediately.
Contact your GP or pharmacist if you are concerned about any side effect, even if it is not listed above. Any suspected side effect can be submitted through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, accessible at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.
Important Safety Advice
Drug interactions
Filitra Professional can interact with several medicines. It must not be taken with nitrate medicines, such as glyceryl trinitrate (GTN), which are commonly prescribed for chest pain. Combining this medicine with certain other treatments carries the risk of a hazardous drop in blood pressure, which can be clinically serious.
Alpha-blockers, some antifungal medicines, and certain antibiotics can also interact with Vardenafil. Always give your doctor or pharmacist a full list of medicines you currently take. Herbal remedies and over-the-counter products are included within the range of treatments that must be disclosed to your doctor.
Alcohol and recreational drugs
Large quantities of alcohol should not be consumed before taking Filitra Professional. Blood pressure may be reduced by alcohol, which also raises the likelihood of dizziness or fainting occurring. Recreational drugs, particularly amyl nitrite, commonly referred to as poppers, must never be combined with Vardenafil.
Conditions to Declare to Your Doctor
Tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions before taking this medicine:
- Heart disease, a recent myocardial infarction (heart attack), or stroke
- Low or high blood pressure
- Liver or kidney problems
- Eye conditions, including retinitis pigmentosa
- Blood disorders such as sickle cell anaemia
- A history of priapism, which refers to a prolonged and painful erection
- Peyronie’s disease, a condition causing a curved or painful erection
Use in Women and Pregnancy
Because it is not licensed for female use, Filitra Professional must not be taken by women or during pregnancy. A confirmed clinical diagnosis of erectile dysfunction in an adult man is required before this prescription can be issued.
Dependence
Physical dependence is not produced by Vardenafil. A psychological reliance on medicine for sexual confidence may nonetheless develop in certain individuals. Discuss any concerns with your GP or a sexual health specialist.
When Should You Speak to a Doctor?
Any chest pain that arises during or following sexual activity must be treated as a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. This may indicate a serious cardiac event and must not be ignored.
An erection persisting beyond four hours must be reported to your GP without delay, as this requires urgent assessment. A prolonged erection beyond four hours is classified as a medical emergency, referred to clinically as priapism. Where treatment is delayed, the risk of permanent damage to penile tissue increases significantly.
Speak to your doctor if Filitra Professional does not seem to be working. No increase in dose should be made without first seeking medical advice. A full review of the treatment plan by your doctor may become necessary in such cases.
Contact your GP if you notice any sudden changes in vision or hearing. Although uncommon, these side effects are serious in nature and require timely clinical assessment.
Can Filitra Professional Be Used With Other Medicines?
Filitra Professional can interact with a wide range of medicines. All treatments currently being taken — including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements — must be disclosed to your doctor.
The most dangerous interaction is with nitrate medicines. A sudden and severe fall in blood pressure may be triggered when this medicine is taken alongside nitrates or similar drugs. Never take Vardenafil alongside any nitrate medicine.
Always inform your pharmacist and GP of every medicine you take. Read our guide on medicine interactions for further guidance on using multiple treatments safely, or speak to your GP or pharmacist.
Storage and Handling Advice
Store Filitra Professional at room temperature. Do not store above 25°C. To preserve tablet quality, the chosen storage location must be shielded from both direct sunlight and any source of moisture. Bathroom cabinets are unsuitable for storage owing to the heat and humidity that can degrade the tablets.
At all times, this medicine and all others must be kept where children are unable to see or access them. Tablets must stay sealed in their original blister packaging right up until the point at which a dose is needed.
Do not use a tablet if the blister pack has been torn, broken, or damaged. Before each dose is taken, the packaging should be inspected for damage or expiry. The expiry date on the packaging must always be checked. Taking the medicine beyond this date is unsafe and must be avoided entirely.
Responsible Access to Treatment in the UK
Filitra Professional is a prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK. You must obtain medicine with a valid prescription from a registered healthcare professional.
You must never purchase prescription medicines from unregulated websites. Counterfeit erectile dysfunction tablets are widely sold online and can be extremely dangerous. The MHRA warns patients to purchase medicines only from registered UK pharmacies. Prescriptions should always be sought through a registered UK GP or a fully regulated online pharmacy.
See available treatment options for erectile dysfunction through a regulated UK online pharmacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Filitra Professional used for?
A: Medicine uses to treat erectile dysfunction in adult men, supporting the ability to achieve and maintain an erection. Both achieving and sustaining an erection during sexual stimulation are supported by the action of this medicine. Neither a cure for the underlying condition nor an enhancer of sexual desire, this medicine addresses the physical response only.
Q: How does Vardenafil work?
A: Within penile tissue, the PDE5 enzyme is blocked by Vardenafil. In response to sexual stimulation, blood flow increases and blood vessels relax as a direct result of how this medicine works. This increased blood flow enables an erection to occur during sexual stimulation.
Q: How long does Filitra Professional take to work?
A: For best effect, Filitra Professional is best taken around 60 minutes before sexual activity is anticipated. The orodispersible tablet may act slightly faster than a standard tablet. Because age and general health differ between patients, the time taken for the medicine to take effect may not be the same for everyone.
Conclusion
Filitra Professional is a prescription medicine containing Vardenafil 20mg. The medicine is a prescription medicine in the UK. Learn how it works, its benefits, side effects, and safety advice.
Penile blood flow is supported during sexual stimulation by the way this medicine acts within the body. It is taken as needed, typically 60 minutes before sexual activity.
Medical supervision is essential when using Filitra Professional. Suitability in relation to your current health status and any other medicines being taken will be assessed by your doctor. Never self-prescribe or obtain this medicine without a valid UK prescription.
Contact your GP if you notice any symptoms or concerns relating to erectile dysfunction. Effective and safe treatments are available through proper UK healthcare channels.
References
- NHS. Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence). Available at: www.nhs.uk
- European Medicines Agency (EMA). Levitra (Vardenafil) Assessment Reports. Available at: www.ema.europa.eu
Important Information
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a registered healthcare professional before starting or changing any treatment. As a prescription-only medicine, Filitra Professional must be used solely under the oversight of a registered UK healthcare professional.