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What is the most important information I should know about alprostadil?

Alprostadil is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence) and to help diagnose certain causes of this disorder. Alprostadil is also used to improve blood flow in newborn babies with a certain genetic heart condition. This alprostadil medication guide addresses only the adult male use of this medication in erectile disorders.

The injectable form of alprostadil is injected into the side of the penis. The transurethral form is a very small suppository (pellet) that is inserted into the opening of the penis (the urethra).

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Using too much alprostadil can be very dangerous. This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Your first dose of this medicine will be given in your doctor's office so you can be observed for how well the medication works and if it causes any side effects. You will then be shown how to properly give the medication to yourself.

Do not give yourself an alprostadil injection or pellet if you do not understand the instructions for proper use. Call your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for help with injection instructions. Using an alprostadil transurethral pellet improperly could cause damage to your urethra.

Alprostadil is used only when needed to get an erection. An erection should occur within 5 to 20 minutes after you use the medication, and should last for 30 to 60 minutes. The length of time your erection lasts may be slightly different from these averages.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medication. Symptoms of an alprostadil overdose may include feeling light-headed, fainting, or having a painful or prolonged erection lasting 4 hours or longer.

What is alprostadil?

Alprostadil is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence) and to help diagnose certain causes of this disorder. Alprostadil is also used to improve blood flow in newborn babies with a certain genetic heart condition. This alprostadil medication guide addresses only the adult male use of this medication in erectile disorders.

Alprostadil relaxes blood vessels and muscles in the penis. This increases blood flow into the penis, causing an erection.

Alprostadil may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using alprostadil?

Do not use alprostadil if you have:

• sickle cell anemia or the sickle cell anemia trait;

• leukemia;

• a tumor of the bone marrow (multiple myeloma);

• chronic urination problems;

• a history of blood clots;

• a curved or deformed penis;

• penile fibrosis or Peyronie's disease; or

• if you have been told you should not have sexual intercourse for health reasons.

Before using alprostadil, tell your doctor if you have:

• a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder;

• a disease that could be passed in blood (such as hepatitis or HIV);

• heart disease;

• high blood pressure (hypertension); or

• if you have a penile implant.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication.

Use a condom to prevent transfer of this medication to your sexual partner if she is pregnant or could become pregnant.

Alprostadil should not be used by women or by anyone under 18 years old.