Some important insights about Caverject (Alprostadil)
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a male sexual dysfunction that is widely recognised, and you may be curious about how medications such as Caverject (Alprostadil) can be used in the treatment of this condition.
In this article, our team at Chemist2U will talk about Caverject (Alprostadil), its usage, potential side effects, and the convenient process of ordering it for home delivery.
In this article
1. How does Caverject (Alprostadil) work?
Caverject (Alprostadil) is a treatment option for erectile issues and penile dysfunction. Its active component, alprostadil, mirrors the action of a natural body substance known as prostaglandin E1. This substance plays a crucial role in widening blood vessels, facilitating easier blood flow into the penis, and thus aiding in achieving and maintaining an erection.[1]
Research shows that Caverject (Alprostadil) is generally a well-tolerated treatment. In a study involving 70 men with arteriogenic erectile dysfunction (ED), 94% responded positively, and most reported an increase in spontaneous erections over time.[2]
2. How do you take Caverject (Alprostadil)?
Caverject (Alprostadil) is administered intracavernosally, meaning it is injected directly into the penis, following the guidance of an attending doctor. The medication is available in two strengths: 10 micrograms (mcg) and 20 mcg per vial, and the syringe contains benzyl alcohol and water for injections.
It’s crucial to read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use provided by your doctor before using this ED medication. The recommended usage of this medicine is no more than three times a week, with at least one day between each injection.
Typically, this erectile dysfunction medication works within five to twenty minutes, producing an erection that lasts about thirty to sixty minutes.[3]
Your doctor selects the dose suitable for your needs, and it is important not to change this dose without consulting them. Regular checkups are also necessary to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and safety.
Caverject (Alprostadil) should not be used more than once every twenty-four hours. It’s important to vary the injection site on the penis with each use. Proper disposal of the medication after each use and regular check-ups to monitor its effectiveness and safety are also crucial.
3. Who can take Caverject (Alprostadil)?
Caverject (Alprostadil), used for penile injection therapy, may be suitable for adult men with erectile dysfunction.[4] Before beginning treatment, a doctor should carefully evaluate the patient’s health, underlying causes of erectile dysfunction, and suitability for the medication.
As with any medication, personal medical history and potential side effects should be carefully considered. It is not suitable for use by women or children. Additionally, men who have penile implants are advised not to use this medication.
4. Side effects of Caverject (Alprostadil)
Caverject (Alprostadil) has shown effectiveness and safety when administered correctly. However, like any medication, it may have side effects.
A dose-escalation study highlighted penile pain as a side effect in 6% of patients. The pain was generally manageable and did not lead to the discontinuation of therapy for most patients.[5]
Additionally, a comparison of Caverject (Alprostadil) with a combination of vasoactive drugs indicated that all patients experienced a burning sensation during the injection of the medicine.[6]
More serious, though less common, side effects can occur, such as prolonged erections (priapism), pain during an erection, swelling or pain in the testes, and the build-up of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis (penile fibrosis, also referred to as Peyronie’s disease) that causes curved, painful erections.[7][8] These require immediate medical attention. If you experience any side effect that persists or worsens, promptly inform your doctor.
5. Caverject (Alprostadil) and other medications
When considering Caverject (Alprostadil) for erection injections, it’s crucial to understand its potential interactions with other medications. So always consult with your doctor about other medication you are taking before commencing Alprostadil.
Studies have explored the combined use of Caverject (Alprostadil) with other ED treatments like sildenafil (a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor). These studies indicate that combination therapy can be more effective for certain types of ED, such as arterial or neurogenic ED.[9]
The combination therapy has been shown to yield a higher response rate compared to monotherapy and may reduce the dosage required, potentially lowering side effects and treatment costs. It’s crucial to understand that combining treatments like intracavernosal injections with oral medications requires careful medical supervision. Do not alter your treatment without talking to your doctor.
Each patient’s individual health status, the nature of their ED, and their response to treatment should guide therapy decisions. To ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment, it’s vital to inform your doctor about all the medications you’re taking.
6. Medicines you should not use with Caverject (Alprostadil)
While Caverject (Alprostadil) is an effective and generally safe therapy for ED, especially when tailored to individual needs, there are certain medications and conditions where its use may be inadvisable. Given the nature of this medication, caution should be exercised when used in combination with other treatments for ED.
Patients with certain medical conditions, such as severe cardiovascular disorders, should approach the use of Caverject (Alprostadil) with caution. This is particularly important for those who have conditions where sexual activity is not advised.
Moreover, it may not be recommended for individuals with hypersensitivity to the drug and conditions predisposing to priapism (prolonged erections). Having an open discussion with your doctor about any existing health issues or other medications you’re taking is essential for a safe and effective treatment plan.
Discuss your full medical history and current medications with your doctor to assess the suitability of Caverject (Alprostadil) for your situation.
7. How to order Caverject (Alprostadil) through Chemist2U
At Chemist2U, we make managing your prescriptions easy. Begin by downloading our user-friendly app or exploring this website, where you can upload your e prescription. Our virtual shelves are also filled with a broad range of over-the-counter medications and general pharmacy goods, allowing you to add any additional items you need, just as if you were in a physical pharmacy.
Your order will be filled by a trusted partner chemist in the local community. With the help of our dedicated couriers, we deliver medications straight from the chemist to you, offering services in metro and major regional areas across Australia.
Chemist2U can also send you handy reminders when it’s time to reorder, helping to ensure you always have your important medication when you need it.
There’s no need to keep looking up terms like ‘chemist Adelaide’ or ‘ED medication online’. Order home delivery of your medications with Chemist2U today!
References
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11248634/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11248634/
[3] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/42035f90-ad4b-450c-8284-a53300ff86e5.pdf
[4] https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=667
[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9138059/
[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9934808/
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542217/
