Alprostadil: What It Does, How to Use It, and Safety Tips
Alprostadil is a medicine that helps blood flow into the penis to produce an erection. You’ll see it as an injection (intracavernosal) or a tiny urethral pellet called MUSE. Both aim to create an erection quickly when oral pills don’t work or aren’t suitable.
The injection goes directly into the shaft and usually works within 5 to 20 minutes. MUSE is placed into the urethra and can take a bit longer. Your doctor will discuss which form fits your health, lifestyle, and comfort level.
What to expect and common side effects
Many men get a reliable erection with alprostadil, but results differ. Expect some burning, mild pain, or spotting with MUSE. Injections can cause soreness, bruises, or tiny lumps at injection sites. Dizziness or lightheadedness may happen, especially the first few times.
There’s one serious risk to watch for: priapism, an erection lasting more than four hours. If that happens, go to an emergency room right away. Long-lasting priapism can cause permanent damage. Tell your doctor if you have sickle cell disease, leukemia, or a history of priapism before using alprostadil.
Using alprostadil safely — practical tips
Always start at the dose your prescriber recommends. For injections, use sterile needles and rotate sites to avoid scarring. If you buy prefilled syringes, check the seal and expiry date. For MUSE, urinate first, warm the pellet in your hand, and insert it gently with the applicator.
Don’t combine alprostadil with recreational drugs or excessive alcohol. If you take blood pressure medicines or anticoagulants, mention them to your provider. Those drugs can change how you respond or increase bleeding risk from injections.
Storage is simple: keep injections and pellets in their original packaging, away from heat and out of reach of children. Some forms may need refrigeration. Follow label instructions and the pharmacy’s advice.
Learning proper technique helps a lot. Ask your clinic for a one-on-one demonstration of injections or MUSE insertion. Many clinics will show you step-by-step until you feel confident. That reduces complications and improves results.
Buying online? Use licensed pharmacies and always get a prescription. Avoid sites that skip prescriptions or offer suspiciously low prices. Look for clear contact info, pharmacist access, and secure payment. If cost is a problem, ask your prescriber about coupons, patient assistance, or generic options.
Alprostadil is a practical option for many men who don’t respond to oral drugs. Talk honestly with your healthcare provider about risks, goals, and alternatives. With the right instructions and care, it can work safely and effectively.