Alprostadil

Alprostadil is an injection used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence) and to help diagnose certain blood flow issues in the penis. It works by widening the blood vessels to increase blood flow, allowing an erection to occur when you are sexually stimulated. This medicine is prescribed when other oral options are not suitable or have not worked well for you.

You should use this medicine exactly when needed, usually no more than once in 24 hours and no more than three times a week. Because it is injected directly, food does not affect how it works, meaning you can use it with or without eating. Making healthy lifestyle choices, like keeping active and managing stress, can also help improve your overall results.

Some common side effects of injection include mild pain or an aching feeling in the penis, minor bleeding at the injection site, or a prolonged erection. If you experience a painful erection that lasts for more than four hours, or if you notice severe bruising or swelling, you must contact your doctor or seek emergency medical help immediately.

Before starting this medicine, tell your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders, blood clots, or conditions like sickle cell anaemia or leukaemia. Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to Alprostadil or any of its ingredients, as it may cause a serious allergic reaction.  Do not take this if you have an implant in your penis, or if you have a medical condition where sexual activity is not advised by your doctor.

Using it alongside blood thinners can increase your risk of bleeding or bruising, while combining it with other erectile dysfunction drugs can cause a dangerously prolonged erection. While this medication is not intended for women, elderly individuals should consult their doctor to ensure their heart is healthy enough for sexual activity.

When taken consistently as directed, this medication may provide the following health benefits:

• Provides reliable erectile support: This medicine is injected directly into the penis, where it works quickly, typically producing an erection within 5 to 20 minutes. This helps improve confidence and sexual performance during intimate moments.
• An alternative to oral medicines: This medicine is an effective option for people who cannot take oral treatments because of certain medical conditions or drug interactions. By helping achieve and maintain an erection suitable for sexual activity, it supports a more satisfying intimate life.

• Follow your doctor’s instructions on the dosage and timing of this medication. Inject not more than 3 times a week, with at least 24 hours between doses.
• Your healthcare provider will show you how to prepare and inject Alprostadil. Check the label for directions and use it as advised by the doctor. Make yourself comfortable and sit upright or slightly reclined and inject Alprostadil into the penis.
• Change the side of the shaft of the penis, and choose a different location for each injection. To minimise the risk of the needle breaking, make sure you use the proper needle as instructed by your doctor.

Common Side Effects (Usually mild):

• Mild to moderate pain or burning in the penis during or after injection
• Small amount of bleeding or minor bruising at the injection site
• Redness or warmth in the genital area
• Headache or mild dizziness
   

Serious Side Effects (Consult your doctor right away):

• An erection that lasts longer than 4 hours
• Severe pain, swelling, or bending of the penis during an erection
• Hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat (signs of a severe allergic reaction)
• Scar tissue or changes in the shape of the penis with repeated injections
• Numbness, coldness, or changes in skin colour on the penis