Edex (Alprostadil)

Edex is a sterile powder that contains alprostadil, a natural substance in the body called prostaglandin E1 (PGE1). Alprostadil helps by relaxing blood vessels and muscles in the penis, which improves blood flow and leads to an erection. This medicine is a type of vasodilator and is used to treat erection problems (erectile dysfunction) in adult men through an injection given directly into the penis (intracavernous injection).

Directions

Edex is given as a shot directly into the base or side of the penis (intracavernous injection). The usual starting dose is 2.5 mcg, and your doctor may increase or decrease it depending on how you respond. You should inject the medicine 5 to 20 minutes before sexual activity.

Do not use more than the dose your doctor prescribes. Edex should not be used more than 3 times a week, and you must wait at least 24 hours between injections.

After you mix the powder with the liquid in the dual-chamber cartridge, use the injection right away. Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the side of the penis, avoiding any visible veins. Switch injection spots each time and alternate sides of the penis to help prevent tissue damage.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in this drug is alprostadil.

Cautions

• Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
  • Any existing health conditions
  • Any allergies
  • A list of all medications currently being taken
• Edex can sometimes cause prolonged erections. Any erection lasting more than 6 hours is a medical emergency because it can lead to permanent damage.
• Because Edex is injected into the penis, dizziness or low blood pressure may occur in some people, especially those with circulation problems. Regular check-ups are important because long-term use can sometimes cause scar tissue or changes in the shape of the penis.
• Edex should not be combined with other erection-related medicines unless your doctor says otherwise. After injecting, press on the injection site for several minutes to prevent bleeding, especially if you take blood thinners like warfarin or heparin.
• Only use Edex as instructed and with sterile technique. Never reuse or share needles or cartridges, and throw them away properly after each dose.
• Most injections cause mild, brief penile pain, but severe pain, swelling, redness, or signs of infection should be reported immediately. You should also stop using Edex and call your doctor if you notice new lumps, curvature, or harder tissue in the penis.
• Edex does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Because injections can cause small amounts of bleeding, there may be a slightly higher risk of spreading blood-borne infections between partners.
• Edex is not for women or children. Older adults may need lower doses and may be monitored more closely, especially if they have kidney problems.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Hypersensitivity or allergy to alprostadil or any ingredients in the product
• Conditions that increase the risk of priapism, including sickle cell anemia or sickle cell trait, multiple myeloma, or leukemia
• Anatomical problems of the penis, such as angulation, cavernosal fibrosis, or Peyronie's disease
  Penile implants are present

Side Effects

Common side effects of Edex include:

• Mild to moderate pain during the injection
• A painful or uncomfortable erection
• Small amounts of bleeding or bruising at the injection site
• Redness, swelling, or tenderness of the penis

These effects are usually mild and improve with proper injection technique. Some men may also notice temporary lumps or curvature of the erect penis, which should be reported to a healthcare provider if it persists.

More serious risks can occur, including erections lasting longer than 6 hours (priapism), which can cause permanent damage if untreated. Needle breakage, while rare, is another possible problem that requires prompt medical attention if it occurs. Bleeding at the injection site may increase the risk of transmitting blood-borne diseases between partners. Seek immediate care for a prolonged, painful erection or any severe pain, increased swelling, or trouble seeing or removing a broken needle.