ALPROSTADIL - INTRACAVERNOSAL

ALPROSTADIL - INTRACAVERNOSAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (al-PROS-ta-dil)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Caverject

GENERIC NAME(S): alprostadil

Uses

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. This medication is not recommended for use in men with penile implants.


How to use ALPROSTADIL - INTRACAVERNOSAL

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use if available from your pharmacist before you start using this medication 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 given by injection into the penis as directed by your doctor. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. It is important to change the location of the injection site with each dose to avoid problem areas under the skin. Therefore, choose an injection site on the other side of the penis from the site of the last dose, using a different area each time. After injection, apply pressure to the injection site with an alcohol swab for about 5 minutes to avoid bruising. Do not use a bent needle to inject this medication. If the needle is bent, replace it with a new needle. If the needle breaks during injection, contact your doctor right away. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. This medication should usually work within 5 to 20 minutes to produce an erection that lasts for about 1 hour. The manufacturer recommends that this medication be used no more than 3 times a week with at least 1 day between each dose. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens (e.g., the drug does not produce an erection or it becomes more difficult to get an erection).

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Mild/moderate pain, irritation, or slight bleeding at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she 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: redness/tenderness/swelling of the penis, lumps/unusual curving of the penis. 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. 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

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 (e.g., angulation, fibrosis/scarring, Peyronie's disease), blood system cancers (e.g., leukemia, multiple myeloma), sickle cell anemia. Use of this drug does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (e.g., 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.

Interactions

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. Some products that may interact with this drug include: "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin, heparin).

Overdose

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. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Faq for ALPROSTADIL - INTRACAVERNOSAL

Intracavernosal alprostadil is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction. It is administered through an injection directly into the side of the penis.

Alprostadil works by relaxing the smooth muscles and increasing blood flow to the penis, which helps in achieving and maintaining an erection.

Intracavernosal alprostadil is injected into the side of the penis using a small needle. The injection should be given at the base of the penis in a specific location recommended by a healthcare provider. Detailed instructions should be given by a healthcare professional.

Intracavernosal alprostadil typically starts working within 5 to 20 minutes after the injection.

Common side effects may include mild pain or bleeding at the injection site, prolonged erection, and mild dizziness. Rare but serious side effects may include priapism (prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours) or fibrosis (formation of scar tissue in the penis).

Yes, intracavernosal alprostadil can be used in combination with other medications for erectile dysfunction, such as oral medications or vacuum erection devices. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before combining medications.

The frequency of use depends on individual needs and is usually determined by a healthcare provider. It is generally recommended to use intracavernosal alprostadil no more than three times per week, with at least 24 hours between each dose.

Intracavernosal alprostadil is generally safe and effective for most men with erectile dysfunction, regardless of the cause. However, certain medical conditions or medications may contraindicate its use. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if it is suitable for individual circumstances.

No, intracavernosal alprostadil should only be used for medical purposes under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Using it recreationally without a medical need can be dangerous and increase the risk of complications.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.