Uses
This medication is used to treat male sexual function problems (erectile dysfunction). It works by helping the blood flow into the penis to achieve and maintain an erection.
This medication is not for use in women or children.
How To Use
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using alprostadil and each time you get a refill. Learn all preparation and usage instructions. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is used by inserting the suppository into the penis as directed by your doctor. Remove the protective cover from the applicator before inserting into the penis. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. This medication should usually work within 5 to 10 minutes to produce an erection that lasts for about 30 to 60 minutes. Do not use more than 2 doses in a 24-hour period.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse (for example, the drug does not produce an erection or it becomes more difficult to get an erection).
Side Effects
Penis/testicle/groin pain, minor bleeding or spotting from the penis, dizziness, swelling (especially of leg veins), and rapid heartbeat may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:
Rarely, males may have a painful or prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours. If this occurs, stop using this drug and get medical help right away, or permanent problems could occur.
In female partners, vaginal burning/itching may occur. It is not clear if this side effect is caused by the medication or sexual intercourse itself. The use of a water-based lubricant may help prevent vaginal irritation.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using alprostadil, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- penis conditions (such as angulation, cavernosal fibrosis, Peyronie's disease, urethral stricture/obstruction, urethritis, infection)
- indwelling urethral catheter
- bleeding disorders
- blood system cancers (such as leukemia, multiple myeloma)
- heart disease
- low blood pressure
- sickle cell anemia
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Use of this drug does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (such as HIV, hepatitis B, gonorrhea, syphilis). To decrease your risk of infection, always use an effective barrier method such as a latex or polyurethane condom during all sexual activity. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
This medication is not for use in women. If this drug is used by a male for sexual intercourse with a pregnant woman, an effective barrier method such as a latex or polyurethane condom should be used. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: fainting, painful/prolonged erection.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
Missed Dose
Not applicable.
Storage
Store unopened foil pouches in the refrigerator. If necessary, this product may also be stored at room temperature for up to 14 days. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
