INTRACAVERNOSAL ALPROSTADIL- ADVERSE EFFECTS

Question 1

What local adverse effects are most commonly associated with intracavernosal alprostadil?

Answer 1

Hematoma and bruising at the injection site are the most common local adverse effects associated with intracavernosal alprostadil.

Question 2

How can the risk of injection site hematomas be minimized?

Answer 2

Patients should apply pressure to the injection site for 5 minutes after each dose to minimize the risk of injection site hematomas.

Question 3

How can infection at the injection site be prevented?

Answer 3

Meticulous aseptic technique is necessary to prevent infection at the injection site.

Question 4

What adverse effect may occur due to cavernosal plaques or fibrosis?

Answer 4

Cavernosal plaques or fibrosis may cause penile curvature, similar to Peyronie’s disease, making sexual intercourse difficult or impossible.

Question 4

What percentage of patients may develop cavernosal plaques or fibrosis at injection sites with intracavernosal alprostadil?

Answer 4

2% to 12% of patients may develop cavernosal plaques or fibrosis at injection sites with intracavernosal alprostadil.

Question 5

How long should a patient suspend further injections if they develop cavernosal plaques or fibrosis?

Answer 5

Patients should suspend further injections for 2 to 4 months or until the plaques resolve if they develop cavernosal plaques or fibrosis

Question 5

How is the pain described in patients experiencing it due to alprostadil injections?

Answer 5

The pain is often described as a burning discomfort or dull pain near the injection site or during an erection

Question 5

How can penile pain from alprostadil injections be managed?

Answer 5

Penile pain can be managed with oral analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen) if necessary.