If you are concerned with erectile issues, rest assured that there are always effective treatment options available.
Whether it’s exercise or medication, each man chooses a different path to solving their erectile issues.
Some men choose to seek physical treatment, and one of the most common ED treatment considered are injections. Let’s review some of the basics of injections for treatment of erectile dysfunction.
What you Need to Know About Alprostadil Injections
One of the most common physical treatments for erectile dysfunction is a drug called alprostadil.
Currently, there are three different brands of injectable alprostadil:
- Caverject
- Edex
- Prostin VR
Alprostadil is a prescription-only drug that is used to help treat men with erectile dysfunction. Alprostadil is identical to a natural substance that the body produces which helps relax muscles and blood vessels to keep enough blood for an erection.
Some men choose to self-inject Alprostadil into the penile shaft for full effect. Before considering this option, it is highly recommended to consult an erectile dysfunction doctor about Alprostadil and how to administer it.
According to the FDA, it is totally safe and self-injections are a very reliable method of dealing with ED.
Studies have shown that Alprostadil has a success rate of 85% (when injected correctly) to induce an erection for sex.
Alprostadil Can Be Applied via a Suppository
If the sound of self-injections have you shaking your head, then there is an alternative. Alprostadil Suppositories are very tiny and pill-shaped form of the medicine that can be applied by inserting it the urethra.
After urinating, the suppository is applied, and it will then dissolve and administer the alprostadil to the affected area.
It’s important to note that the suppository form of alprostadil is known to be much less effective than its self-injection counterpart.
Are Alprostadil Injections Right For You?
Alprostadil may not be a right fit for everyone. Many men find ED injections unpleasant as it requires direct application to the penile shaft.
Here is a list to check off if you should consider Alprostadil.
- Check if your have an allergic reaction to Alprostadil.
- See if any of your prescription or non-prescription drugs will interfere with the injections (these can include herbal supplements).
- If you have a history with priapism (painful erections lasting longer than 2 or 4 hours).
- Lastly, check if there are any pre-existing problems with your penis (excessive bleeding, infection, or itchiness).
The Side-Effects of Alprostadil Injections
The most troublesome side-effect is priapism, which is a prolonged erection (lasting longer than 2 to 4 hours) can increase the risk of long-term erectile dysfunction.
Here are a few of the most common side-effects of Alprostadil.
- Bruising or bleeding where the injection was administered
- Pain in the penis area
- Unusual discharge from the penis
- Rash on the skin of the penis
- Headaches, dizziness, back pain, or flu symptoms.
It is important to note that all of these side-effects are common, so be sure to take note of any major changes in your health after usage and be ready for any telltale signs.
Which Erectile Treatment is Best for You?
If you’re hesitant or apprehensive about Alprostadil there are many other treatment options for ED to choose from.
Sound wave treatments such as GAINSWave therapy which require very little physical contact have proven very effective for many men.
Many men suffering from Erectile Dysfunction just need a change in lifestyle from exercise to dieting.
The reality is that ED affects every man differently, so be sure to explore the different treatment options with your erectile dysfunction doctor.