alprostadil
a PROSTAGLANDIN drug (PGE1) administered by infusion to improve lung blood flow in newborn babies with congenital heart defects who are awaiting surgery; it acts by preventing the closure of the blood vessel connecting the aorta to the pulmonary artery ( see DUCTUS ARTERIOSUS ). Possible side-effects include diminished respiratory efforts. Alprostadil is also administered by injection into the corpora cavernosa of the penis or by application into the urethra to treat erectile IMPOTENCE in men; side-effects may include dizziness and headache. Trade names: Caverject, MUSE, Prostin VR.
Alprostadil injection and suppositories are used to treat certain types of erectile dysfunction (impotence; inability to get or keep an erection) in men. Alprostadil injection is also sometimes used in combination with other tests to diagnose erectile dysfunction. Alprostadil is in a class of medications called vasodilators. It works by relaxing the muscles and blood vessels in the penis to keep enough blood in the penis so that an erection can occur. Alprostadil does not cure erectile dysfunction or increase sexual desire. Alprostadil does not prevent pregnancy or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
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