Alprostadil Explained

If you have erectile dysfunction and are looking for help, Alprostadil is the best known drug used to treat problems with male sexual functions. The drug facilitates healthy blood flow to the penis and thus, helps in achieving and maintaining an erection.  This medication is usually only prescribed where oral medications have failed.

This medicine should not be used by women and children.

What is the method of using this drug?

This medicine is used in the form of suppositories or injections. Your doctor will explain the method of insertion or injection. The dose of this medicine depends on the severity of your condition. It takes 5-10 minutes for the medicine to take full effect. The erection thus achieved will last for 30-60 minutes. It is strictly recommended that you do not take more than two suppositories during the course of 24 hours. In suppository form, Alprostadil is known as MUSE. You can find out more about this product here.

Inform your doctor if the drug makes it harder to get an erection.

What are the side effects of this drug?

The following are some side effects that are likely to occur during the course of medication:

  • Pain in the testes/ groin/ penis
  • Spotting or minor bleeding from the penis
  • Swelling especially in the calves
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Fainting
  • Painful erection
  • Erection lasting more than four hours

The above stated side-effects are rare and the drug is generally well tolerated in a majority of people.

Your female partner may report vaginal burning or itching during/after sexual intercourse when the suppository method is used. You may use a water-based lubricant to prevent this vaginal irritation.

Consult your doctor immediately if you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug.

It is always safe to consult your doctor if you notice any changes in your body or somatic sensations.

You can read more about the side effects here.

What precautions should you take before using Alprostadil?

It is recommended that you talk to your doctor about the following before using this medicine:

  • Allergic reactions
  • Genito-urinary tract disorders
  • Indwelling urethral catheter
  • Any disorders related to the penis such as angulation, Peyronie’s disease, blood cancers, low blood pressure, heart disease and bleeding disorders.

It is also important that you give up using heavy machinery and driving as treatment with Alprostadil continues. You should also restrict alcohol consumption.

Use appropriate protection while having sex if you have been exposed to any STDs as this drug does not protect against those diseases.

What are the drug interactions of Alprostadil?

It is important that you tell your doctor if you are using any blood thinners or any herbal products. Do not alter the dose of your medicine abruptly. Always consult your doctor if you notice any changes in yourself or make any alterations.

More detailed information is found here.

What should you do in case of overdose?

You should contact an emergency room as soon as you suspect overdose. Some of the known symptoms of overdose include fainting, painful and prolonged erection.

How to store this medicine?

You should store unopened foils bags of this medicine in the refrigerator at 2-8 degrees C, which is equivalent to 36-46 degrees F. You may store a set for no more than 14 days. Discard the medicine properly in case of expiry or if no longer needed.

The injectable version of Alprostadil does not need to be refrigerated.