Healthwise

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Alprostadil Injection (ALPROSTADIL - INTRACAVERNOSAL)

Instructions

This medicine is given as an injection into the penis.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Gently swirl to mix the medicine. Do not shake.

Keep medicine at room temperature. Protect from light.

Do not store above 77 degrees F (25 degrees C).

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Discard any unused, mixed medicine after 24 hours at room temperature.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

The first dose of this medicine should be started in the doctor's office to determine proper dose strength.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Do not use if needle is bent. Replace it with a new needle.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose site on the other side of the penis from the last dose.

After injection, apply pressure to the injection site with an alcohol pad for about 5 minutes to avoid bruising.

This medicine usually works within 5 to 20 minutes and produces an erection that lasts for about 1 hour.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Brand Name(s): Caverject

Generic Name: Alprostadil

Cautions

This medicine is not approved for use by women.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine does not protect you or your partner against sexually transmitted diseases.

Use condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

If you have a painful erection or an erection for more than 4 hours, seek medical care right away.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • pain, redness, swelling near injection

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • lumps in the penis
  • redness, swelling or tenderness in the penis
  • unusual curving of the penis

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

Due to the threat of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus), we are taking precautionary measures to protect our staff and patients. We are implementing a temporary NO VISITOR policy at this time. Only patients or patients and their guardians will be allowed into the office. Please note, this is not to inconvenience anyone! The virus is a very real threat and it is essential that we stay healthy in order to provide needed care for our patients. If you are sick, we ask that you CALL the office to speak with a nurse before you come in. The nurse will provide specific instructions for you. Please DO NOT enter the office if you are sick (upper respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, or flu like symptoms). We are closely monitoring the situation and will update you as circumstances change. Thank you for your understanding!!