How do you take Caverject (Alprostadil)?
It's important to read the patient information leaflet carefully before using Caverject.
Caverject (alprostadil) should only be used if prescribed by a registered doctor and a doctor has shown you how to inject Caverject. Caverject is injected into the spongy tissue on either side of the penis called the corpus cavernosum. Do not try to learn yourself or inject if you cannot remember how to do this safely as incorrect injection can damage the penis. The patient information leaflets provide instructions of how to administer the injection and can be found here:
The dose required varies between men. Your doctor will advise on the right dose for you. The starting dose is 1.25 - 2.5 micrograms and this is then increased depending upon the results. Most men find that a dose of 5 - 20 micrograms is suitable however some men may require a higher dose. To minimise the risk of prolonged painful erection, your doctor will select the lowest effective dose. You should never use more than 40 micrograms.
Do not use Caverject more than once in 24 hours or more than three times in a week. Change the exact place and side of the penis that you inject Caverject each time you use it.
Caverject can be used by couples wishing to conceive and with a partner who is pregnant or breast-feeding. It will not protect your partner from pregnancy or stop the transmission of sexually transmitted infections. The injection can result in a small amount of blood which can increase the risk of spreading certain sexually transmitted infections. The use of a condom is recommended to protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Who should not use Caverject (Alprostadil)?
Do not use Caverject if you:
- Are allergic (hypersensitive) to Caverject or any other medicines containing alprostadil or any of the other ingredients of Caverject.
- Have sickle cell anaemia (a blood disease), leukaemia (cancer of the blood), multiple myeloma (bone cancer) or any other problem which increases the risk of getting “priapism”. This is a painful condition when your penis continues to remain erect.
- Have an implant in your penis.
- Have a condition (such as severe heart disease) in which sexual activity should be avoided.
- Have a penis which is scarred or not straight.
- Have a tight foreskin.
Caverject can interact with other medicines so it's important that you tell the doctor about all medicines you are taking before you start using Caverject.