Caverject Vial (Alprostadil)

Caverject contains alprostadil, a synthetic form of prostaglandin E1, used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. It works by relaxing smooth muscle tissue and widening blood vessels in the penis. This allows increased blood flow to help achieve and maintain an erection. The medication comes as a sterile powder that's mixed and injected directly into the side of the penis.

Directions

Caverject is given via intracavernosal injection, meaning it's injected directly into the side of the penis. A healthcare provider should demonstrate the proper preparation and injection technique before attempting self-administration.

The medication comes as a powder that must be mixed with sterile water before use. The typical starting dose is 2.5 to 5 mcg, which a doctor may adjust based on how well it works. Do not use more than one injection per day or more than three times per week.

Each vial, syringe, and needle is for single use only and should be thrown away in a sharps container. It's important to alternate injection sites between sides of the penis and apply firm pressure to the area for about five minutes afterward to prevent bruising or bleeding.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Caverject is alprostadil.

Cautions

Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:

• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications currently being taken

Prolonged erections can occur. Caverject may cause erections that last too long, including priapism, a painful erection lasting more than 4 hours. Seek immediate medical care if this happens to prevent permanent damage.

Scar tissue in the penis is possible. Some people may develop penile fibrosis, which can cause bending or hard tissue inside the penis. Your healthcare provider may check for this during follow-up visits and stop treatment if it develops.

Low blood pressure may occur. The medication can sometimes lower blood pressure, especially in people with certain blood flow conditions in the penis.

Bleeding at the injection site may happen. This risk is higher if you take blood thinners such as warfarin or heparin. Press on the injection site with gauze or an alcohol swab for several minutes after injecting.

Erectile dysfunction can sometimes be related to underlying cardiovascular problems, so your healthcare provider may evaluate and treat those conditions first.

Do not combine with other injected ED medications. Using Caverject with other injectable erectile dysfunction drugs is not recommended because safety has not been well studied.

Rare needle problems can occur. The injection uses a very fine needle, and in rare cases the needle may break if used incorrectly. Follow injection instructions carefully to reduce this risk.

Not for infants or children. Caverject contains benzyl alcohol and is not approved for use in newborns or infants.

Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. You should still use protection, such as condoms, to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases including HIV.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Known hypersensitivity to alprostadil or any ingredient of the formulation
• Conditions that predispose to priapism, including sickle cell anemia, sickle cell trait, multiple myeloma, or leukemia
• Anatomical deformations of the penis, such as angulation, cavernosal fibrosis, or Peyronie's disease
• Penile implants are present
• Sexual activity is not recommended if you have underlying cardiovascular conditions
• Men for whom sexual activity is not recommended or who've been advised against intercourse

Side Effects

Common side effects of Caverject include:

• Penile pain
• Injection site discomfort
• Minor bleeding at the injection site

These side effects usually occur where the medication is injected and are often mild. Some people may notice temporary redness, bruising, or irritation at the injection site. Following proper injection instructions can help reduce these effects.

More serious side effects are less common but possible. Caverject can cause priapism, which is an erection that lasts longer than 4 hours and requires emergency medical care. Other risks include penile fibrosis (changes in penis shape), low blood pressure, or increased strain on the heart during sexual activity. Seek medical help right away if you develop chest pain, severe dizziness, or an erection that does not go away.