An injectable medication called Caverject is used to treat erectile dysfunction. It is a member of the drug class known as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. These medicines relax the penis muscles and boost blood flow, which causes an erection.
Using a unique needle and syringe, caverject is injected into the side of the penis. It can be administered by a healthcare professional or self-injected. Caverject takes five to fifteen minutes to begin working, and its effects last for thirty to sixty minutes.
Health Benefits
Erectile dysfunction is treated with caverject. In men with various forms of ED, it can enhance sexual function, including:
- organic ED, which is brought on by physiological issues such as poor blood circulation or nerve damage.
- psychogenic ED, which is brought on by mental health issues like stress or anxiety.
- mixed ED, which is brought on by a combination of psychological and physical factors.
Additionally, studies have shown that Caverject works well for treating:
- Peyronie's disease, which results in the penis bending or curving abnormally.
- priapism, a rare disorder that results in uncomfortable, protracted erections.
Side Effects and Risks
The most typical Caverject side effects include:
- ache or swelling where the injection was given;
- an erection that lasts more than four hours
- priapism (an uncomfortable, protracted erection)
Additional negative effects include:
- lightheadedness
head pain
to flush
- dizziness or sickness
- alterations in vision
– rash
Most of the time, these side effects are minor and transient. However, priapism is a serious condition that needs to be treated right away by a doctor. If left untreated, it may result in impotence and permanent tissue damage. Caverject and alcohol combined can lead to more priapism.
Caverject should not be used by people with certain medical conditions, including:
- Coronary artery diseaseor heart disease
- uncontrollable hypertension
- a history of a heart attack or stroke
- Liver illness
- Kidney illness
- issues with blood clotting
People who are allergic to alprostadil or any other component of Caverject should avoid using it.
Caverject should be used at the lowest effective dose possible to minimize the risk of side effects. Additionally, the side of the penis rather than the base or shaft should receive the injection. To avoid the formation of scar tissue, the injection site should be switched each time.
Dosages of Caverject
There are two strengths of Caverject: 20 mcg and 40 mcg. Most men should administer a 20 mcg dose, which should be administered 5–15 minutes before sexual activity, into the side of the penis.
Interactions
There could be drug interactions with Caverject. Inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and dietary supplements you are taking. Caverject should only be used as directed while pregnant. Whether this medication enters breast milk is unknown. Before breastfeeding, speak with your doctor.
Medications like the following may interact with Caverject:
- Drugs to lower blood pressure
- drugs to control heart rhythm
- Anti-HIV/AIDS drugs
- a number of antifungals
– ritonavir
This list of interactions is not exhaustive. For more information, consult your physician or pharmacist.
Mechanism of Action
Uncertainty surrounds the Caverject's mechanism of action. The smooth muscles in the penis are thought to be relaxed, allowing for increased blood flow and an erection.
Prior to sexual activity, Caverject, a prescription drug, is injected into the penis. Only use it when necessary, and never more than three times per week. When taking Caverject along with other drugs like alpha blockers or nitrates that can lower blood pressure, care should be taken.
Pharmacokinetics
Caverject is quickly removed from the injection site and reaches its peak concentration in 5 minutes. Typically, a half-life lasts for 45 minutes. Caverject is primarily excreted in the urine as the active ingredient and its metabolites.