Alprostadil
Alprostadil is a prostaglandin E1 analog that acts as a potent vasodilator. It is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction when other treatments have failed, and also to keep the ductus arteriosus open in newborn infants with certain congenital heart conditions. Additionally, it may be used to improve blood flow in patients with peripheral vascular disease.
Alprostadil is a vasodilating medication used for erectile dysfunction, certain heart conditions in newborns, and peripheral circulation problems.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C01EA01
- RxNorm
- 598
- Generic
- Alprostadil
- Class
- atc-c01e
- Brands
- Prostin VR, Edex, Caverject, Muse
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- prefilled syringe, injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Alprostadil is used in adult men with erectile dysfunction who have not responded to oral therapies, and in neonates with ductus arteriosus-dependent congenital heart lesions. It may also be used for peripheral vascular disorders such as Buerger's disease and severe Raynaud's phenomenon.
Alprostadil acts directly on vascular smooth muscle receptors to cause relaxation and vasodilation. This increases blood flow to the affected area, whether in the penile tissue for erectile function, the ductus arteriosus to maintain patency, or peripheral vessels to improve circulation.
Alprostadil should not be used in patients with conditions that predispose to priapism, bleeding disorders, or known hypersensitivity. It is administered via intracavernosal injection or urethral suppository for erectile dysfunction, and intravenously or intra-arterially for other indications. Patients should be properly trained on administration technique and seek immediate medical attention for prolonged erections.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy