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Home > Drug Category > Erectile Dysfunction Drugs > Caverject and Equivalent

Caverject Information

Caverject (Alprostadil) is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, in adult men. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual activity. It is a common condition that can stem from a combination of physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors, such as heart disease, diabetes, stress, and anxiety. Caverject helps men who have trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sexual activity. Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) analogs like Alprostadil work by improving blood flow to the penis, causing an erection. Alprostadil acts locally and does not need sexual stimulation. The effects last about 30 to 60 minutes.

Caverject Side Effects

The most common side effects of Caverject may include mild pain at the injection site, dizziness, headache, and minor bruising. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Bleeding or bruising at the injection site;
• Low blood pressure or fainting;
• Priapism – erection lasting more than 4 hours (this is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment);
• Severe penile pain or swelling;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, breathing difficulties, itching, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat

Caverject Precautions

Do not use Caverject if you are allergic to Alprostadil or other ingredients in this medication. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, including if you have bleeding problems, heart disease, a history of priapism, leukemia, low or high blood pressure, penile implants, Peyronie’s disease, or sickle cell anemia. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Caverject and other medications, such as sildenafil, warfarin, metoprolol, epinephrine, and nitrates such as nitroglycerin. Alprostadil is not approved for use in women. Caverject is not for use in children and adolescents.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Caverject comes as an injectable medicine. Do not inject Caverject until your doctor has trained you in the proper technique. The first dose is usually given in a clinic so your doctor can monitor your reaction and adjust your dose if needed. Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle, ensuring the entire needle is inserted safely. Inject into one of two safe spots on the side of the penis, about halfway between the base and the head. Avoid the top (where nerves run) and bottom (where the urethra is). Alternate sides each time to prevent scarring or lumps. Wash your hands thoroughly before using Caverject. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry. Hold the penis firmly along the thigh to stretch it slightly. Insert the needle straight in (not at an angle) into the side of the shaft. Inject the medicine slowly over 5 seconds. Remove the needle, then press the site with a clean cotton ball or gauze for at least 5 minutes. Dispose of the syringe in a sharps container. Never reuse needles. Erection usually starts 5 to 20 minutes after injection. Do not use more than one injection in 24 hours and no more than three injections in a week. Do not exceed the maximum dose prescribed by your doctor. Avoid alcohol when using Caverject. Alcohol can increase your risk of dizziness or low blood pressure. Sit or lie down after injecting Caverject. Avoid standing up quickly. Store Caverject at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Caverject?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Caverject.