Alprostadil

Alprostadil Product Information
Alprostadil is a prostaglandin E₁ (PGE₁) medication that works by dilating blood vessels to increase blood flow. Its clinical uses vary by dosage form:

1. Urethral Suppositories (e.g., Muse)
Indication: Treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men.
Mechanism: Absorbed through the urethral mucosa, it dilates penile cavernosal blood vessels to induce erection.
Dosage: Available in strengths of 0.125mg, 0.25mg, 0.5mg, and 1mg. Start with the lowest effective dose.
Onset & Duration: Takes effect in 5–10 minutes, lasting 30–60 minutes. Use no more than once daily.
2. Cream (e.g., Alprostadil Cream/Befar)
Indication: Treatment of male ED.
Mechanism: Local application relaxes smooth muscles in the penis and dilates arteries to enhance blood flow.
Dosage: Apply 5–20 minutes before sexual activity. For 100mg:0.4mg cream, use 1 tube; for 0.25g:1mg cream, use 1/3 tube.
Administration: Insert into the urethra or apply to the glans penis after cleaning.
3. Injection (e.g., Alprostadil for Injection/Baodaxin)
Indication: Treatment of myocardial infarction, thromboangiitis obliterans, and obstructive arteriosclerosis.
Mechanism: Intravenous infusion dilates peripheral blood vessels to improve circulation.
Dosage:
Myocardial infarction: 100–200μg/day (max 400μg/day) diluted in 250–500ml saline/glucose.
Vascular diseases: 100–200μg/day via slow IV infusion.