Caverject Dual Chamber (alprostadil) is a fast-acting treatment for men suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED).

This medication is administered by injection into the penis. While this may sound daunting, syringes are designed with extra-fine needles that the majority of men do not find bothersome.

Men who are disinclined to use injections may be interested in other formulations of this medication, including Vitaros, a topical cream applied to the penis, or Muse, a penile suppository. All of these rely on alprostadil and work in 5 to 10 minutes.

Caverject Dual Chamber does not require refrigeration or have any other special storage/handling instructions; keeping the medication at room temperature is fine.

How Alprostadil Works

Alprostadil is a vasodilator also known as prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), a naturally occurring substance in the body. Ultimately the medication expands blood vessels, improving blood flow. Administered directly to the penis it improves blood flow there, which enables an erection to from and be maintained long enough for intercourse.

Alprostadil is also used to treat certain congenital defects in newborns and to treat elements of peripheral artery disease. However, dosage is usually different and administration location is nearly always different in these cases; Caverject Dual Chamber should not be used to treat anything other than ED.

Using Caverject Dual Chamber

The dual chamber in this product refers to two chambers in the syringe; the medication in a powder and the solution mixed with it. Both are included in a single syringe; each pack of Caverject Dual Chamber includes two syringes.

Each syringe can administer several dosage strengths, the smallest being 2.5 mcg. Men who need a smaller dose will need to use regular Caverject powder.

Dosage is best determined by a doctor, and can range from 1.25 mcg to 60 mcg per dose. Average is 5 to 20 mcg. A doctor will also demonstrate how to use the dual-chamber syringe. Detailed syringe use instructions are also included with each product.

A syringe can be prepared---powder and solution mixed---up to 24 hours prior to use and stored at room temperature. After a dose is administered, any remaining prepared solution should be disposed of.

To administer a dose:

• Prepare the syringe as directed by a doctor or according to leaflet instructions.
• Visually ensure the solution is clear (not cloudy or containing particulates) and that the needle is not bent.
• Holding the penis from the front, gently squeeze it. This should cause the injection site to bulge out; injections should be administered to the fleshy part of the sides of the shaft.
• Avoiding any obvious veins, insert the needle into the flesh of the shaft. If using the Caverject syringes included with the product, the needle can be fully inserted.
• Press the syringe's plunger to expel the medication. If there is resistance, do not force it; remove the needle and try a different location.
• Remove the needle and massage the penis spread the medication throughout.

An erection should form 5 to 15 minutes after administration, and should last about an hour. Unlike most ED treatments, erections often form without stimulation and remain after ejaculation. If an erection remains after 4 hours, seek emergency medical treatment; this condition can cause damage.

Some other tips to ensure treatment is hassle-free:

• Do not use Caverject Dual Chamber more than once in 24 hours.
• Do not use Caverject Dual Chamber more than 3 times per week.
• Alternate injection sites each time to avoid bruising, scarring, and other issues.

Most men find Caverject Dual Chamber provides a fast, simple solution for ED and do not experience significant side effects.

Potential Complications

Side effects do, unfortunately, sometimes happen even when care is taken to use the medication as directed. Side effects that warrant medical attention before continuing use of Caverject Dual Chamber include:

• Pain or aching in the penis, testicles, or perineum
• Burning sensation in the urinary opening of the penis
• Persistent Headache or back pain
• Vision changes

Side effects that warrant immediate medical attention include:

• An erection lasting more than 4 hours
• Swelling or unusual curving of the erect penis
• Nodules in the penis
• Swollen veins in the legs
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fainting

Long-term use of Caverject Dual Chamber can cause scarring and a bent erection. If this happens use of Caverject may need to end.

Caverject may also become less potent over time. If it stops producing results, speak with a doctor about alternative treatments.