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.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions
for Use if available from your pharmacist before you start using
alprostadil 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 used by inserting the suppository
into the penis as directed by your doctor. Remove the protective cover from
the applicator before inserting into the penis. The dosage is based on your
medical condition and response to treatment. This medication should usually
work within 5 to 10 minutes to produce an erection that lasts for about 30
to 60 minutes. Do not use more than 2 doses in a 24-hour
period.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse
(for example, the drug does not produce an erection or it becomes more
difficult to get an erection).
Penis/testicle/groin pain, minor bleeding or spotting
from the penis, dizziness, swelling (especially of leg veins), and rapid
heartbeat may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your
doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor 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:
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.
In female partners, vaginal burning/itching may occur.
It is not clear if this side effect is caused by the medication or sexual
intercourse itself. The use of a water-based lubricant may help prevent
vaginal irritation.
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.
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 (such as angulation, cavernosal fibrosis,
Peyronie's disease, urethral stricture/obstruction, urethritis,
infection)
- indwelling urethral catheter
- bleeding disorders
- blood system cancers (such as leukemia, multiple
myeloma)
- heart disease
- low blood pressure
- sickle cell anemia
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana
(cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do
anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic
beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana
(cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
Use of this drug does not protect against sexually
transmitted diseases (such as 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.
This medication is not for use in women. If this drug is
used by a male for sexual intercourse with a pregnant woman, an effective
barrier method such as a latex or polyurethane condom should be used.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
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.
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 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669. Symptoms of overdose may include:
fainting, painful/prolonged erection.
Do not share this medication with others.
Store unopened foil pouches in the refrigerator. This
medication may also be stored at room temperature for up to 14 days if
needed. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.