Alprostadil (Caverject) Drug for Impotence: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Alprostadil
(Caverject, United States and Canada)

Use:

Alprostadil or Caverject is an injection used for male impotence, and is as effective as other types of injections used for impotence.

How It Works:

Alprostadil or Caverject is a type of prostaglandin which causes smooth muscle to relax. Alprostadil or Caverject is injected into the penis relaxing the smooth muscle. With the smooth muscle relaxed blood can flow into the penis resulting in an erection - in 5 to 20 minutes.

Side Effects:

Penile pain is the most common side effect and occurs in about 50% of men using Alprostadil or Caverject.
Drugs for impotence have the potential of causing prolonged erection. Alprostadil or Caverject is less likely to produce this side effect.

Cautions for People:

Because Alprostadil or Caverject is an injection, people who have problems self injecting will not be able to use it. Alprostadil or Caverject is packaged for convenience and with complete instructions for use.

Drug Interactions:

Alprostadil or Caverject does not usually interact with other drugs. In fact, it can be given with other drugs - papaverine, phenolamine - used for impotence.

Further Reading:

N Engl J Med 1996;334:873,913
Drug Ther Perspect 1996;7(1):1
Med Letter 1995;37:83
J Urol 1995;153:80

Added to Virtual Drugstore August 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.