Alprostadil

Drug 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.

Overdosage

Overdosage was not observed in clinical trials with Alprostadil. If intracavernous overdose of Alprostadil occurs, the patient should be under medical supervision until any systemic effects have resolved and/or until penile detumescence has occurred. Treatment of any systemic symptoms (e.g., hypotension) would be appropriate.

Safety information

Warnings

Prolonged erection defined as erection lasting between 4 to 6 hours in duration occurred in 4% of 1,861 patients treated up to 18 months in studies of Alprostadil. The incidence of priapism (erections lasting more than 6 hours in duration) was 0.4%. In the event of an erection that persists longer than 4 hours, the patient should seek immediate medical assistance. If priapism is not treated immediately, penile tissue damage and permanent loss of potency may result.

To minimize the chances of prolonged erection or priapism, Alprostadi should be titrated slowly to the lowest effective dose. In addition, do not use Alprostadil in patients who have conditions that predispose them to priapism, such as sickle cell anemia or sickle cell trait, multiple myeloma, or leukemia.

Disclaimer

The information on this page is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat your problem without consulting your doctor.

Side effects

The following are described elsewhere in the labeling:

• Prolonged Erection and Priapism
• Penile Fibrosis