Drug
Alprostadil
Pronounced
"al-PROS-ta-dil"
Side Effects
Penis/testicle/groin pain, minor bleeding or spotting from the penis, dizziness, swelling (especially of leg veins), and rapid heartbeat may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fainting.
Rarely, males may have a painful or prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours. If this occurs, stop using this drug and get medical help right away, or permanent problems could occur.
In female partners, vaginal burning/itching may occur. It is not clear if this side effect is caused by the medication or sexual intercourse itself. The use of a water-based lubricant may help prevent vaginal irritation.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using alprostadil, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: penis conditions (such as angulation, cavernosal fibrosis, Peyronie's disease, urethral stricture/obstruction, urethritis, infection), indwelling urethral catheter, bleeding disorders, blood system cancers (such as leukemia, multiple myeloma), heart disease, low blood pressure, sickle cell anemia.
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Use of this drug does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (such as HIV, hepatitis B, gonorrhea, syphilis). To decrease your risk of infection, always use an effective barrier method such as a latex or polyurethane condom during all sexual activity. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
This medication is not for use in women. If this drug is used by a male for sexual intercourse with a pregnant woman, an effective barrier method such as a latex or polyurethane condom should be used. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.