Alprostadil Side Effects

Alprostadil is a synthetic compound that is used as a vasodilator in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It is a potent smooth muscle relaxant that relaxes the blood vessels and increases blood flow to the penis or lungs.

There are a number of possible side effects with alprostadil, but they are typically minor. However, users may experience serious side effects. If you are considering using alprostadil, it is important to speak to your doctor first to ensure that it is the right treatment.

What Are the Side Effects of Alprostadil Use

There may be side effects associated with alprostadil. If any of these symptoms persist or are severe, consult your doctor:

• Bruising or bleeding on the area of medication administration 

• Aching or hurting sensation in one’s penis, testicles, legs, or perineum

• Headache

• Back pain

• Skin issues

• Issues with vision

• Genital rash or redness

• A feeling of burning sensation in the urinary opening 

There can be serious side effects associated with alprostadil. Call your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms:

• Erections that last longer than four hours

• Fast heartbeat

• Fainting

• Swollen leg veins

• Erect penis which is red, swollen and unusually tender and curved

• The penis is having nodules or hard areas

Some users may overdose on Alprostadil. The symptoms of overdose include: 

• Fainting

• Blurred vision

• Nausea

• Over six hours of erection

• Penis pain that doesn’t go away

• Dizziness

Who Is at Risk for Experiencing Alprostadil Serious Side Effects?

Certain classes of people are considered more at risk of serious side effects of Alprostadil. These include the following: 

Those Who Take Certain Medications

Those who take certain medications, such as alpha-blockers or nitrates, are at risk of severe side effects. For instance, if you’re taking tamsulosin hydrochloride for an enlarged prostate or nitroglycerin for chest pain, mixing it with Alprostadil could lead to a dangerous mix. If you’re taking any of these medications, you should speak to your doctor first before starting on Alprostadil. 

Those at Risk for Heart Attack or Stroke

Alprostadil can have serious side effects particularly in people who are at high risk for heart attacks or strokes. This is because these drugs work by widening the arteries in the penis, brain, and heart. These side effects can include chest pain, an irregular heartbeat, fainting, and priapism (a painful, prolonged erection). 

Therefore, if you’re at risk for a heart attack or stroke, talk to your doctor before taking alprostadil. This is because the drug can increase the risk of these conditions, leading to serious issues.

Those With History of Health Conditions

Those with a history of unstable angina, congestive heart failure, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or low blood pressure are at an increased risk of developing serious Alprostadil side effects. In addition, medications for such conditions may interact with Alprostadil to increase the risk. If you have a history of such health conditions, be sure to speak with your doctor.

How Can You Manage Alprostadil Side Effects?

When using Alprostadil it is advisable to monitor yourself to ensure the medication is helpful to you. You should monitor your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature levels before and after Aprostadine use. When you monitor these aspects, you can be able to identify any potential problems early on.

In addition, you need to monitor the duration of the erection. If you experience an erection over 4 hours after the drug use, seek medical attention right away. You also need to visit your doctor for a check-up and monitoring during the course of your Alprostadil usage. With regular monitoring and timely attention to any discomforts, you can minimize the risk of serious side effects from alprostadil.