What it is used for
- Treating erectile dysfunction by an injection into the penis or a purpose-made topical product, as prescribed
- Temporarily keeping the ductus arteriosus open in newborn babies whose blood flow depends on it until cardiac intervention
How it is used
- Erectile-dysfunction treatment is started under specialist supervision, with training in safe use; do not change the amount or repeat treatment yourself
- The erectile-dysfunction injection is placed into the side of the penis exactly as taught by the doctor and must not be injected into a vein
- Apply the purpose-made cream to the opening of the urethra as the leaflet directs, avoiding the eyes and broken skin
- The newborn intravenous infusion is given continuously by an intensive-care team while breathing and circulation are monitored
Possible side effects
- Penile pain, burning, swelling or bruising with erectile-dysfunction products
- Dizziness, fainting or low blood pressure
- Flushing, fever or diarrhoea in newborn babies
- Temporary pauses in breathing in newborn babies, which may require breathing support
Who should not use it
- Allergy to alprostadil or any ingredient in the product
- A condition that increases the risk of a prolonged erection, such as certain blood disorders, when used for erectile dysfunction
- Severe penile deformity or scarring, or a penile implant, unless a specialist decides otherwise
Before and while using it
- Get urgent care if an erection lasts unusually long or becomes painful; delay can cause permanent damage
- Stop activity and seek help for chest pain or fainting; sexual activity must be safe for your heart condition
- Minor bleeding can occur at an injection site and the risk is greater with blood thinners
- The newborn infusion is a critical-care medicine that can stop breathing, so ventilation must be immediately available
- Do not combine it with another erectile-dysfunction treatment unless a specialist directs this
Medicine interactions
- Blood-pressure medicines may increase dizziness or low blood pressure
- Blood thinners may increase bruising or bleeding at the injection site
- Other erectile-dysfunction medicines may increase adverse effects and should not be combined without supervision
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Erectile-dysfunction products are not intended for women; a condom may be needed to prevent a pregnant partner being exposed, so follow the leaflet and medical advice
How to store it
- Storage differs between formulations; follow the pack and leaflet, and do not use a solution if its appearance has changed
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.