Alprostadil (Alprostadil (Prostaglandin E1))
A synthetic form of prostaglandin E1 used to treat erectile dysfunction by directly relaxing penile blood vessels. It works independently of sexual arousal and is delivered by injection or urethral suppository under medical guidance.
How it works
Alprostadil activates prostaglandin receptors that raise intracellular cAMP in cavernosal smooth muscle, causing vasodilation and increased blood inflow to produce an erection regardless of nerve signaling or arousal.
Key facts
- Molecular weight: 354.5 Da
- Half-life: Very short (minutes, locally metabolized)
- Bioavailability: Intracavernosal injection or intraurethral suppository
- Storage: Refrigerate; follow product-specific instructions.
Dosing overview
- Typical dose: Provider-titrated per response
- Frequency: As needed before activity
- Duration: On demand
- Route: Intracavernosal injection or urethral pellet
Protocol notes
- Dose is individually titrated by a physician starting at a low amount to find the minimum effective dose.
- Administered shortly before intended activity; effect is rapid and local.
- A component of TriMix, but also used as a standalone agent.
Reported benefits
- Effective for erectile dysfunction
- Works independent of arousal
- Rapid onset
- Useful when oral PDE5 inhibitors fail
Possible side effects
- Penile pain
- Prolonged erection/priapism
- Injection site bruising
- Dizziness
- Rare fibrosis with repeated use
Research
- Alprostadil for erectile dysfunction (2018): Intracavernosal alprostadil produced reliable erections in a majority of men, including PDE5-inhibitor non-responders.
Compare Alprostadil
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.