Caverject (Alprostadil)
Alprostadil (Caverject) is used to treat male impotence. Your doctor also may use Alprostadil to help diagnose the exact nature of your impotence. Caverject is taken by injection.
The first injections are performed by your doctor in the doctors office in order to determine the proper dosage. Afterward, you can inject Caverject yourself as needed. Your doctor will train you in the proper technique for injecting Alprostadil and you'll be given complete printed instructions. Follow these directions exactly and do not change the dose your doctor has determined.
Do not use a Caverject solution that appears cloudy or colored or that contains particles. Do not shake the vial.
Wash your hands thoroughly and do not touch the needle. Carefully choose the injection site as instructed by your doctor, always avoiding visible veins. Cleanse the site with an alcohol swab. With each use, alternate the side of the penis and the site of the injection.
Use the needle/syringe and vial only once, then discard them properly. Do not share needles or allow anyone else to use your medication.
Caverject comes in both 10 micro gram and 20 micro gram strengths. Make sure you are using a vial with the correct strength.
After injecting Caverject, put pressure on the injection site for 5 minutes, or until the bleeding stops.
Alprostadil Dosage
Alprostadil is injected into a specific area of the penis and produces an erection within 5 to 20 minutes. Do not use Alprostadil more than 3 times a week. Wait at least 24 hours between use.
If you miss a dose of Alprostadil
Since Alprostadil is used as needed, you will not be on a dosing schedule.
Storage — How to store Alprostadil
- Store unused packs of Alprostadil at room temperature for up to 3 months. Protect from freezing or from overheating.
- Once the Caverject solution is mixed, you must use it immediately or discard it.
- When traveling, take care to prevent exposing Caverject to freezing or excessive heat. Do not store Caverject in checked luggage or leave it in a closed car.
- Caverject suppositories should be stored in the refrigerator, but may be left at room temperature for up to 14 days before use. Protect the suppositories from high temperatures and direct sunlight. Carry them in a portable cooler when traveling.
Side effects of Alprostadil
Caverject side effects can not be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Caverject.
The most common side effect is mild to moderate pain in the penis during and/or after injection, reported by about one-third of users. A small amount of bleeding may occur at the injection site. Notify your doctor if you have a condition or are taking a medication that interferes with blood clotting. As with any injection, the site can become infected. Call your doctor if you notice any redness, lumps, swelling, tenderness, or curving of the erect penis.
Your doctor should examine your penis regularly if you use Caverject. Use of Caverject may result in formation of fibrous (hardened) tissue in the penis or erections at an unusual angle. If those side effects of Alprostadil occur, inform your doctor and stop using Caverject.
More common Caverject side effects may include:
Blood-filled swelling at the site of injection, disorder of the penis (such as discoloration of the head, strange feeling, tearing of the skin), hardened tissue in the penis, pain in the penis, prolonged erection, upper respiratory infection.
