Alprostadil Intracavernosal, Adult

What are other names for this medicine?

Generic and brand names: alprostadil, intracavernosal, adult; Caverject; Edex

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is given by injection (shots) directly into the penis to cause an erection in adult males who have problems with erections. It may also be used to help diagnose such problems. This medicine may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How should I use it?

The correct amount of medicine you need to cause an erection is usually determined by your health care provider in the office or clinic. Thereafter, you will self-inject this medicine following your health care provider's instructions and the instructions included in the medicine package.

These shots are different from other types of shots. Carefully follow the instructions in the medicine package to prepare the medicine for injection. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist about anything you do not understand.

• Throw out vials (little bottles) if the liquid is not clear.
• Each vial is for one use only. Do not reuse it.
• Do not shake the vial after adding the liquid.
• Do not reuse syringes or needles.
• Dispose of used needles and syringes safely to avoid injury to others.

Never increase the dosage on your own. Too much of this medicine can cause erections that last so long that the penis is damaged. The proper dosage should cause an erection within 5 to 20 minutes. The correct dosage will cause an erection lasting no longer than 1 hour. Normally, use this medicine no more than 3 times a week with at least 24 hours between doses.

What should I watch out for?

This medicine should NOT be used by women or children.

Pain in the penis is a very common side effect. Also, some dosages can cause very long erections (over 6 hours), which can damage the penis. If your erection lasts over 4 hours, see your health care provider right away or get emergency medical treatment.

Your health care provider will want to see you regularly to find out how this medicine is working. Keep all your appointments.

Injections into the penis may cause bleeding. If the bleeding is bad or continues, contact your health care provider.

This medicine does not protect you or your partner from sexual diseases or AIDS.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Serious (report these to your health care provider right away): Erection that lasts longer than 4 hours; bumps or hard tissue on the penis; heavy bleeding.

Other: Pain or swelling in penis, headache, dizziness.

What products might interact with this medicine?

When you take this medicine with other medicines, it can change the way this or any of the other medicines work. Nonprescription medicines, vitamins, natural remedies, and certain foods may also interact. Using these products together might cause harmful side effects. Talk to your health care provider if you are taking:

• blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin) or heparin.

Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, nonprescription, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins) with you. Be sure that you tell all health care providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicines in the trash.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.