Alprostadil (Inside the urethra (Urine tube))

Introduction:

Alprostadil (al-PROS-ta-dil)

Treats impotence (problems having sex) by helping you have an erection.

Brand Name(s):

Muse

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to alprostadil or if you have an abnormally formed penis. If you have certain medical problems such as sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or bone marrow tumors then you should not use this medicine. These conditions can increase the risk of having an unwanted erection that can last over 6 hours, which can be dangerous. If your doctor has told you not to have sex, then you should not use this medicine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Suppository

  • Your doctor will tell you how to use the medicine. An information booklet, video tape, and pamphlet are also available to teach you how to use the medicine. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.
  • You will use an applicator to put a small pellet of medicine (suppository) into your urethra. The urethra is the tube in your penis that urine and semen move through.
  • The medicine should be kept in the refrigerator. Take the medicine out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you use it, and let it warm to room temperature.
  • Urinate right before you are ready to use the medicine. Gently shake excess urine from the penis. Moisture makes it easier to put the medicine in your penis and will help dissolve the medicine.
  • Tear open the foil pouch and slide the applicator out of the pouch. Twist the body of the applicator and pull the applicator from the cap. Save the pouch and cap to use when you throw the applicator away.
  • Make sure you can see the suppository in the applicator. Then, stretch the penis to its full length, and gently press the glans until the urethra opens.
  • Keep the penis stretched, and insert the applicator into the urethra up to the applicator's collar. Push down on the button on the top of the applicator.
  • Hold the button down and keep the applicator in your urethra for 5 seconds. Very gently move the applicator from side-to-side so the suppository does not stick to the applicator tip.
  • Keep the penis upright and take the applicator out. Make sure the suppository is in your urethra and not stuck to the applicator.
  • Roll your penis between your hands for 10 seconds. If you have a burning feeling, roll your penis for about a minute or until the burning lessens.
  • Sit, stand, or walk for about 10 minutes after you have put in the suppository. This will improve blood circulation, so you have a better erection. Do not lie down right after inserting the medicine.

If a dose is missed:

  • This medicine is used when you want to have an erection. You should not use the medicine more than 2 times each day.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Put the cap back on the applicator, and use the foil pouch to throw the applicator away. You can only use each applicator once.
  • Store unopened foil pouches in the refrigerator. If you keep the pouch at room temperature, the medicine is good for 14 days. Keep the medicine away from heat. The medicine may not work if exposed to temperatures above 86 degrees F.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using a blood thinner such as Coumadin®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you have a history of dizziness, fainting, low blood pressure, or heart problems.
  • You should have an erection about 5 to 10 minutes after using the medicine. The erection should last about an hour. Erections that last more than 4 hours can be dangerous and cause permanent damage. Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you still have an erection after 4 hours.
  • This medicine should not be given to women, children, or babies. If your partner is pregnant, you must use a condom when having sex.
  • Before you and your partner start having sex again, your partner may want to talk with her doctor.
  • This medicine will not keep your partner from getting pregnant. It will not protect you or your partner from diseases such as syphilis, herpes, or HIV. Use a latex condom for protection. Make sure you understand and practice safe sex.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Erection that lasts longer than 4 hours
  • Fainting

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Aching in your penis, testicles, legs, or groin
  • Warmth or burning feeling in your penis
  • Minor bleeding from your urethra
  • Reddened penis
  • Dizziness
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