Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition where a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. It can be a source of frustration and stress, affecting relationships and self-esteem.
ED affects men of all ages but becomes more common as you age. Underlying health conditions can also contribute like:
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Hormonal imbalances
- Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression
There are several effective therapies that can help men regain the sex life they desire, including penile injections for ED.
Injection Therapy for ED
If you’ve tried other treatments for ED without success, injection therapy might be an option to consider.
This treatment involves injecting medication directly into your penis to help stimulate an erection. It can provide a reliable way to manage ED when other methods, like oral medication, haven’t worked as well or have unwanted side effects.
How Does Injection Therapy Work?
Erections naturally occur when special tissues in the penis fill with blood, causing the penis to become erect.
Medications used in injection therapy work by relaxing the smooth muscle in the penis, increasing blood flow to the area, and reducing the outflow of blood. This results in an erection similar to a natural one.
Typically, injection medications begin to work within 10 to 20 minutes, and the effects can last for 2-3 hours.
The stiffness of the erection may vary based on the amount injected. In some cases, additional stimulation may be required to achieve a fully rigid erection.
If the initial dosage does not produce the desired effect, your doctor may adjust the amount of medication or combine it with other drugs to enhance its potency.
What Medications Are Used?
One key drug used in injection therapy is a medication called alprostadil. This drug is FDA-approved for the treatment of ED and is available under brand names like Caverject and Edex.
Alprostadil works as a vasodilator, meaning it relaxes the blood vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow in and helping to produce an erection.
In some cases, doctors may prescribe a compounded medication, which may contain the active ingredients:
- Alprostadil
- Papaverine
- Phentolamine
When starting any ED injection therapy, your doctor will usually give you the first dose in their office. This way, they can ensure you know how to administer the injection correctly and monitor how your body reacts. The dosage may be adjusted over time to help you get the best results.
Who Can Benefit from Injection Therapy?
Injection therapy can be particularly beneficial for men who:
- Have not responded to oral ED medications
- Experience side effects from other ED treatment
- Prefer a non-surgical treatment option
- Have ED due to nerve damage or vascular issues
Common Side Effects of Injection Therapy
While injection therapy is generally well-tolerated, some men may experience side effects, including:
Penile pain or ache, though some discomfort is common during or after the injection.
Prolonged erection (priapism). An erection lasting longer than four hours requires immediate medical attention.
A temporary sensation of warmth or lightheadedness.
A burning sensation. This is especially common with alprostadil.
Bruising at the injection site.
Scar tissue formation, which may cause penile curvature (Peyronie’s disease).
Is Injection Therapy Right for You?
If you’ve been struggling with ED and other treatments haven’t worked, injection therapy might be a good option for you. Your doctor can guide you through the process, provide training on how to administer the injections and help you manage any side effects that may arise.
Find out if penile injections for ED are right for you – call 843.347.2450 to schedule an appointment today!