Caverject (alprostadil)

What is Caverject (alprostadil)?

Caverject is an injection containing Alprostadil and is used to treat erectile dysfunction, or impotence, in men. Alprostadil is also available under the brand name MUSE and we can also prescribe this medication, which comes in the form of a urethral suppository.

Can I get Caverject Online?

The Online Clinic can prescribe Caverject for patients with erectile dysfunction, but this would not be our first line recommendation. If you have tried treatments like Viagra, Cialis and Vardenafil and they have failed or produced unsatisfactory results then we can consider Caverject. Please note that patients are required to have been shown how to use intracavernosal injections by a healthcare professional in a face-to-face environment.

How does Caverject (alprostadil) work?

Alprostadil treats erectile dysfunction by allowing the penis to become and stay turgid. Specifically, Alprostadil is a vasodilator and works by dilating the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow into the penis.

Caverject (alprostadil) instructions

Alprostadil is injected directly into the spongy erectile tissue (corpus cavernosum) via a syringe and needle. Before preparing the medicine, ensure that your hands are washed clean with soap and water. For maximum benefit, ensure you use it immediately after preparation. An erection usually takes 5 to 15 minutes to manifest and its duration depends on the dose injected. The dose should ideally be determined by your doctor. Most patients will get a response at a dosage between 5 and 20 mcg. Only ever take Caverject if you have been shown how to use this in a face to face environment.

Are there any side effects of Caverject (alprostadil)?

The most common side-effects you might experience are pain in the penis, haematoma, leg cramps and a prolonged erection. Other less common side effects include any injection-site issues such as inflammation and bleeding, dilated pupils, nausea, dry mouth, asthenia, and problems with urination such as blood in the urine, urgent need to pass urine and pain when passing urine.

Can anyone use Caverject (alprostadil)?

You should use alprostadil with caution if you are taking anticoagulants, or suffer from cardiovascular or respiratory disorders. You should avoid using alprostradil if you have any disorders where sexual activity is not recommended, have sickle cell anaemia, bone marrow cancer or leukaemia, or have a curvature or scarring of the penis. We will only prescribe this treatment if you have already used it and been shown how to inject the product by a healthcare professional in a face to face environment.

References

Clinical trial information
https://www.centerwatch.com/directories/1067-fda-approved-drugs/listing/3287-caverject-alprostadil

Alprostadil study
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542217/

Summary of Product Characteristics
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2918/smpc

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 Caverject Patient Information Leaflet