MUSE (alprostadil)

MUSE is an acronym of Medicated Urethral Suppository for Erection and is classed as a medicated pellet and is administered using a plastic applicator. Alprostadil is the active ingredient of this treatment for erectile dysfunction and its function is to widen the blood vessels in the penis by relaxing the thin layer of muscle of the vessel wall.

Can I Buy MUSE Online?

The Online Clinic is prepared to prescribe MUSE to patients following an online consultation. Simply complete a consultation form and one of our doctors will review this and prescribe MUSE if it is appropriate to do so.

How Does Alprostadil Work?

When MUSE (alprostadil) is administered into the penis, via the urethra, the penis becomes rigid as the blood flows into the tissues. It is advisable for the patient to urinate before inserting the pellet as this will lubricate the area and provide the necessary amount of fluid to aid the absorption of the active ingredient. There is also an injection for administering of alprostadil known as Caverject.

Why the need for MUSE (alprostadil)?

Some men do not benefit from the use of PDE5 inhibitors such as Viagra, Cialis or Levitra and MUSE offers them another option for treating erectile dysfunction. MUSE normally ensures an erection in 5 - 10 minutes and will last between thirty and sixty minutes. The fast onset time provides a clear advantage for many men.

How to use Alprostadil?

MUSE (alprostadil) is inserted into the urethra using the applicator device supplied with the medication. As we have stated above, it is best to perform this procedure immediately after passing urine as this will moisten the urethra and aid the absorption of the alprostadil. The penis should be rolled in the hands for around 10 seconds to ensure adequate distribution of the medication. If using this medication with a pregnant partner, condoms must be used. This treatment must be used no more than twice within a 24 hour period and no more than seven times within a 7 day period.

Are there Side Effects?

Most people do not suffer any side effects with MUSE but the most common are: Penile bleeding (if the suppository is not inserted correctly) pain in the penis and testes and dizziness.

Who should not take MUSE (alprostadil)

Some men may be contraindicated for MUSE for example if they have suffered from cardiovascular illness in the past or show the potential for cardiovascular illness in the future. In all cases, a medical consultation must take place before MUSE is purchased and administered. Other reasons one might not be suitable for this kind of treatment include penile abnormality and having an increased risk of priapism (prolonged erections).

Please complete an online consultation form and a member of our medical team will review your answers and offer a prescription if appropriate.

Reviewed by: Dr Loraine Haslam MBBS, DRCOG, DFSRH, LoC SDI, LoC IUT, MRCGP
GMC registration number: 4524038
Date: 9 June 2024
Next review: 8 June 2026
All UK registered doctors can have their registration checked on
The Medical Register at the GMC website.

Information Leaflet

Source and further information

Download MUSE Patient Information Leaflet