Understanding Erectile Dysfunction Medications (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
Prostaglandins
Prostaglandins include alprostadil (Caverject, Edex, Muse Pellet).
- How prostaglandins work: These drugs work by enhancing blood flow in the penis, thereby causing erection.
- Who should not use these medications: Persons with allergy to alprostadil should not take them, nor should those with hyaline membrane disease, respiratory distress syndrome, penile implants or an abnormally formed penis, or conditions resulting in long-lasting erections (for example, sickle cell anemia or trait, leukemia, or multiple myeloma).
- Use: Prostaglandins are administered as either an injection into the penis or as a pellet inserted into it (via the urethral opening at the end of the penis).
- Drug or food interactions: No drug or food interactions are currently known.
- Side effects: Contact a doctor if an erection lasts more than 4 hours. Prostaglandins may cause headache, decreased blood pressure, or dizziness. Caution is warranted in individuals with heart disease that may be aggravated by decreased blood pressure or dizziness.
Next: Investigational Drugs »
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Indication
Uroxatral® (alfuzosin HCl 10 mg extended-release tablets) is an alpha1-blocker for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of BPH.
Important Safety Information
Do not take UROXATRAL if you have liver problems or if you are taking antifungal drugs like ketoconazole or itraconazole, or HIV drugs like ritonavir.
UROXATRAL can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when starting treatment. This may lead to fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do any dangerous activity until you know how UROXATRAL will affect you. This is especially important if you already have a problem with low blood pressure or take medicines to treat high blood pressure. There may be an increased risk of low blood pressure and fainting when taking UROXATRAL in combination with blood pressure medication or nitrates, or erectile dysfunction medication.
If considering cataract surgery (clouding of the eyes), tell your eye surgeon that you are currently taking UROXATRAL or have previously been treated with an alpha-blocker.
Before taking UROXATRAL, tell your doctor if you have kidney problems.
Also, tell your doctor if you or any family member(s) have or take medications for a rare heart condition known as congenital prolongation of the QT interval.
BPH and prostate cancer can cause the same symptoms. However, UROXATRAL is not a treatment for prostate cancer.
The most common side effects with UROXATRAL are dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, and tiredness.
Please see UROXATRAL full prescribing information.
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