Alprostadil

Alprostadil treats erectile dysfunction and rare genetic heart diseases. This medication may cause temporary dizziness.

Alprostadil Overview

Reviewed: October 3, 2013
Updated: 

Alprostadil is a prescription medication used to certain types of erectile dysfunction. Alprostadil belongs to a group of drugs called vasodilators. These work by relaxing the muscles and blood vessels in the penis so that an erection can occur.

Common side effects of alprostadil include lower body aches, warmth or burning sensation in the urethra, and light headedness or dizziness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how alprostadil affects you.

How was your experience with Alprostadil?

First, a little about yourself

Tell us about yourself in a few words?

What tips would you provide a friend before taking Alprostadil?

What are you taking Alprostadil for?

Choose one
  • Other
  • Aortic Arch Syndromes
  • Aortic Coarctation
  • Ductus Arteriosus, Patent
  • Hypertension, Pulmonary
  • Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
  • Impotence, Vasculogenic
  • Pulmonary Valve Stenosis
  • Tetralogy Of Fallot
  • Tricuspid Atresia

How long have you been taking it?

Choose one
  • Less than a week
  • A couple weeks
  • A month or so
  • A few months
  • A year or so
  • Two years or more

How well did Alprostadil work for you?

Did you experience many side effects while taking this drug?

How likely would you be to recommend Alprostadil to a friend?

Uses of Alprostadil

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Alprostadil is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of erectile dysfunction.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Alprostadil Brand Names

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Alprostadil may be found in some form under the following brand names:

Alprostadil Drug Class

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Alprostadil is part of the drug class:

Side Effects of Alprostadil

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Serious side effects have been reported with alprostadil.

Common side effects of alprostadil include the following:

  • aching in the penis, testicles, legs, and in the perineum (area between the penis and rectum)
  • warmth or burning sensation in the urethra
  • redness of the penis due to increased blood flow
  • minor urethral bleeding or spotting due to improper administration
  • prolonged erection - IF YOUR ERECTION IS RIGID FOR MORE THAN 4 HOURS, CALL YOUR DOCTOR PROMPTLY.
  • swelling of leg veins
  • light headedness
  • dizziness
  • fainting
  • rapid pulse

This is not a complete list of alprostadil side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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