Caverject

Brand Name:Alprostadil Injection, MUSE, Prostin VR

Prescription needed: Yes

What is this drug used for?

Alprostadil is used to produce erections for some men who need treatment for erectile dysfunction or impotence. It works by increasing the amount of blood that can flow to the penis. It can also be used alone or with medical tests to help doctors diagnose erectile dysfunction that may be caused by nerve or blood vessel problems in the penis. Prostin VR is also used to treat a congenital heart disorder in newborn babies.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to alprostadil. As well, you should not use this medication if you have a penile implant or conditions such as myeloma, leukemia or sickle cell anemia that may increase your chances of having priapism.

If you are using the alprostadil suppository, you must use a condom when having sexual intercourse with a pregnant female.

Tell your doctor if you have or ever have had the following:

  • abnormal penis, including curved penis and birth defects of the penis
  • bleeding problems or easy bruising
  • infection of penis
  • red or itchy penis
  • priapism

What about possible side effects?

The most common side effects to this medication include:

  • mild to moderate pain in penis
  • pain at the injection site
  • bruising, bleeding
  • swelling
  • an erection that lasts longer than usual (4-6 hours) – call your doctor immediately

These side effects are usually related to the injection or the suppository. Effects on other parts of the body are less common but can occur. These effects will be more common with the Prostin VR as it is used for different reasons and in a different way (intravenous). These include:

  • priapism (an erection lasting longer than 6 hours – call your doctor immediately)
  • testicular pain or swelling
  • flushing
  • a slow heartbeat
  • low blood pressure
  • dizziness
  • diarrhea
  • seizures
This is not a complete list of side effects. If you are concerned about these or other unusual symptoms while taking this medication, ask your doctor and/or pharmacist for more information and advice.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Always provide your doctor with a list of all other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications and herbal/natural products) as they may interact and may change the safety or effectiveness of either drug. Tell your doctor specifically if you are taking any of these drugs as these are the most common interactions and he/she may need to make changes or monitor you more closely:
  • warfarin, clopidogrel, high dose aspirin, dipyridamole, heparin (may increase your chances of bleeding, bruising at the site of injection)
  • other medications that can cause priapism or prolonged erection (for example, sildenafil, some medications for schizophrenia or depression) – ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any medications that may increase your risk for this side effect.

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your list of medications.

Other information:

If this medicine is not used properly, permanent damage to the penis and loss of the ability to have erections could result. Alprostadil injection should not be used as a sexual aid by men who do not have erectile dysfunction.

Children: Not prescribed except in the case of Prostin VR for newborn babies.

Seniors: May require a lower dose.

Pregnant women: Not prescribed.

Women who are nursing: Not prescribed.

People who drive or operate machinery: No special problems.

Alcohol: Excessive use of alcohol with alprostadil may contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Overdose: If you seriously exceed the recommended dosage, call your doctor or 911.

Stopping the drug: You may safely stop taking the drug when you no longer need it.

If you miss a dose: Take it the next time you need it. Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours or more than 3 doses weekly.

Storage conditions: In a refrigerator but do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.

Dietary precautions: None