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Alprostadil Urethral Suppository

What is this medication?

ALPROSTADIL (al PROS ta dil) is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). This medicine helps to create and maintain an erection.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Muse

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have, or have had any of these conditions:

  • An abnormally formed penis
  • Bleeding disorder
  • Have a condition that might cause a painful, prolonged erection, such as sickle cell disease or trait, leukemia, or multiple myeloma
  • Have been advised not to engage in sexual activity
  • Low blood pressure
  • Penile implant
  • Trouble passing urine
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to alprostadil, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • If your partner is pregnant or intends to become pregnant

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for use in the penis only. You will be taught how to prepare and use it. Wash your hands before and after use. Use it as directed on the prescription label. Do not use more often than directed. Make sure that you are using your medication correctly. Ask your care team if you have any questions.

A patient package insert for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time. The sheet may change often.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. It is not approved for use in children.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medication is not for regular use. This medication should only be used as needed to achieve an erection. Do not use more than 2 times in each 24-hour period.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Medications for blood pressure

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress.

If you experience dizziness or feel faint during sexual intercourse, this may be due to low blood pressure. Lie down immediately and raise your legs. If symptoms persist, call your care team promptly.

Males who get this medication must use a condom during sex with females who can get pregnant. If you get a woman pregnant, there is potential for serious harm to an unborn child. Tell your care team right away if you think your partner might be pregnant.

Using this medication does not protect you or your partner against HIV infection or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions (skin rash, itching or hives; swelling of the face, lips, or tongue)
  • fast, irregular heartbeat
  • low blood pressure (dizziness; feeling faint or lightheaded, falls; unusually weak or tired)
  • prolonged or painful erection
  • swelling of the ankles, feet, legs
  • trouble passing urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • aching in the penis, testicles, legs, or in the perineum (area between the penis and rectum)
  • redness of the penis due to increased blood flow
  • small amount of bleeding or spotting from the penis due to improper use
  • warmth or burning sensation at site of insertion

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Refrigeration (preferred): Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep unopened medication in the pouch. Protect from heat and light. Do not open until you are ready to use it. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

Room Temperature: This medication may be stored at room temperature for up to 14 days. Keep unopened medication in the pouch. Do not open until you are ready to use it. Do not expose to temperatures above 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Do not expose to direct sunlight. When traveling, store this medication in a portable ice pack or cooler. Do not store in the trunk of a car or in baggage storage areas. Get rid of any unused medication after 14 days.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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