What is this medicine?
ALPROSTADIL (al PROS ta dil) is a natural protein. It is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). This medicine helps to create and maintain an erection.
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What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-an abnormally formed penis
-have been advised not to engage in sexual activity
-leukemia
-penile implant
-sickle cell disease or trait
-tumor of the bone marrow (multiple myeloma)
-an unusual or allergic reaction to alprostadil or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
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This medicine is for injection into the penis. You will be taught how to use this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
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This does not apply.
What may interact with this medicine?
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-medicines for blood pressure
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
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Contact your doctor or health care professional immediately if the erection lasts longer than 4 hours or if it becomes painful. This may be a sign of priapism and must be treated immediately to prevent permanent damage.
Do not change the dose of your medication. Call your doctor or health care professional to determine if your dose needs to be changed.
This medicine does not protect you or your partner against HIV infection (the virus that causes AIDS) or other sexually transmitted diseases.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-prolonged or painful erection (lasting longer than 4 hours)
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-bleeding, bruising, or pain at site of injection
-change in blood pressure
Where should I keep my medicine?
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Keep out of reach of children.
Store at or below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F) for up to 3 months. Do not freeze.
Information on use before, during and after pregnancy.
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FIRST Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
SECOND Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
THIRD Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
Lactation
Avoid - This drug is known to cause harm to infants when taken by nursing mothers.