Scott Weaver
Updated at: August 27, 2024 · 5 min read
What is Alprostadil?
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with erectile dysfunction then you may have heard of a medication called alprostadil. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? In this article, we will provide an overview of this medication and will answer questions such as what it is used for, how effective it is and what side effects can be associated with it. This article is ideal for people who are already using the medication, and those who are looking at potentially using it.
What is Alprostadil?
Alprostadil belongs to a group of medications known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandin E1 is a naturally occurring chemical, and alprostadil is a synthetic form of this. It can be used to help treat a number of different conditions, however, it is primarily used for erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction, often shortened to ED, is a condition that is characterised by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection that is sufficient for sexual intercourse.
What is Alprostadil used for?
The main use of alprostadil is for erectile dysfunction (ED), however, it can be used to help treat other medical conditions associated with blood flow and circulation. It can sometimes be used by medical professionals to treat infants with heart defects or to treat blood flow in people that suffer from peripheral arterial disease. It should be noted however that the main use of alprostadil for the general public is to treat erectile dysfunction. The most well-known alprostadil medication for erectile dysfunction is Vitaros.
How does Alprostadil work?
Alprostadil works by directly affecting the smooth muscle cells and blood vessels in the penis. When used for erectile dysfunction, alprostadil acts as a vasodilator. It relaxes and widens the blood vessels in the penis to allow blood to flow into the erectile tissues. When a man becomes sexually aroused blood will flow to the penis and lead to an erection. Alprostadil causes blood vessels to expand which allows for more blood to flow to the penis, thus making an erection firmer and longer lasting.
How effective is Alprostadil?
Alprostadil has been shown to be effective for a number of different medical applications including the treatment of erectile dysfunction. The effectiveness for individual cases will vary depending on the individual case including how it is applied, the amount that is applied and the underlying cause of the erectile dysfunction. Clinical studies have shown that alprostadil is effective for around 60-80% of men that suffer from erectile dysfunction. Responses to the medication can also vary depending on the user's overall health and the severity of their condition.
Why is Alprostadil not used as a first choice for ED?
Whilst alprostadil is an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction it is typically not the first option given to those looking for medications. Usually, people will use other medications before they use alprostadil as other medications are more well-known. Medications that people use before using alprostadil include Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil). Alprostadil cream, such as Vitaros is a great alternative to these other medications, especially when other medications have not had the desired effect.
What user experiences have people had with using alprostadil for erectile dysfunction?
Here are some reviews from real Alprostadil users about their medication:
“It works like a miracle l feel young again. There are a few side effects but it is worth the trade-off to feel like a man again."
“Excellent... Very satisfied."
“It's a 10 plus for me, lasted right at 2 hours and my wife loved it. All the other stuff really didn't do much of anything, it also made it noticeably bigger."
For more reviews, check out drugs.com
What side effects can Alprostadil have?
Like all other prescription medications, alprostadil can cause some side effects. The frequency and severity of these side effects will vary from person to person, however, there are some side effects that are more common than others. The most common side effects of alprostadil include:
Pain and discomfort in the penis
Priapism - a prolonged and often painful erection that lasts longer than four hours
Minor bleeding from the urethra
Aching in the penis
Hypotension - a temporary drop in blood pressure
Allergic reactions
What brand names does Alprostadil have?
There are a number of different brand names that are given to alprostadil. The most common brand name for alprostadil is the cream version of the medication called Vitaros. This is the most common version of alprostadil. Other brand names include Caverject, Edex and Viridal which are all injectable medications, and Muse which is a suppository that is inserted into the urethra.
Can I buy Alprostadil online?
You can purchase the cream version of alprostadil, Vitaros, online from UK Meds. Vitaros is a prescription-only medication so you will need to complete our FREE online consultation before you can make your purchase.
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