Injection, Solution for Injections

Pfizer, Pharmacia

Caverject (alprostadil) is used to treat impotence (erectile dysfunction) in adult males. It may also be used to help diagnose impotence in males.

Do not use Caverject (alprostadil) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Caverject (alprostadil) you are female you have conditions that make you prone to stiff erections lasting 6 or more hours you have or carry the gene for sickle cell anemia you have bone marrow tumors or leukemia you have a deformed penis or penile implant you have been advised not to have sexual intercourse if you have sickle cell anemia, myeloma or leikemia.

Before using Caverject (alprostadil), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are taking, will be taking, or stop taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical condition

Do not inject Caverject (alprostadil) in an erect penis. Prolonged erection and/or priapism are known to occur following administration of Caverject (alprostadil).

Other: Testicular pain, scrotal swelling, blood in urine, urinary frequency, pelvic pain, low blood pressure, irregular heart beat, weakness, rash, itching at the injection site, nausea, dry mouth, increased serum creatinine and leg cramps.

How much medicine you use and how often you use it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated, your age, and weight. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Caverject (alprostadil) you are using, talk with your health care provider. Follow the self injection procedures taught to you by your health care provider. Erections usually occur within 5 to 20 minutes after injection and last about 1 hour. If an erection lasts longer than 6 hours, contact your doctor at once. Report any penile pain, nodules, redness, swelling, tenderness, curvature of the erect penis, or hard tissue to your physician as soon as possible. In general do not use more than 3 times a week, and wait 24 hours between doses. Caverject (alprostadil) offers no protection from spreading sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV. A small amount of bleeding at the injection site may occur. This can increase the risk of spreading serious diseases between partners. Regular medical checkups are necessary to monitor treatment. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Caverject (alprostadil). Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medicines without talking with your doctor.

Store Caverject (alprostadil) below 77 degrees F for up to 3 months. Vials with any discoloration or precipitates should be thrown away. Vials are designed for single use. Any unused portion of Caverject (alprostadil) should be thrown away.