How to Use Edex (Alprostadil for Injection)
Edex is an injectable form of alprostadil used to treat erectile dysfunction by relaxing blood vessels in the penis, causing an erection. It is self-administered via intracavernous injection into the side of the penis. Always follow your doctor's instructions, as dosage and technique are personalized based on response and testing.
Preparing for Injection
- Wash hands and the injection site with soap and water.
- Inspect the vial for discoloration or particles; discard if present.
- Mix the sterile powder with the provided diluent (bacteriostatic water) by gently swirling—do not shake. Use within 24 hours if refrigerated.
- Draw the prescribed dose (typically 1-40 mcg in 0.5-1 mL) into a 0.5- or 1-mL insulin syringe with a 27-30 gauge needle.[1]
Injection Steps
- Sit or stand in a comfortable position with the penis flaccid.
- Compress the penis base with thumb and forefinger to compress veins.
- Hold the syringe like a pencil. Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the side of the shaft (dorsolateral aspect, midway between base and head)—avoid the top (where veins are) and bottom (urethra).
- Inject slowly over 5-10 seconds, then withdraw the needle and apply pressure with an alcohol swab for 5 minutes to prevent bleeding.
- An erection should occur within 5-20 minutes and last 30-60 minutes.[1][2]
Dosage and Frequency
Start with a low dose (e.g., 2.5-5 mcg) titrated in a doctor's office. Maintenance doses range from 1-40 mcg, used no more than 3 times per week, with 24 hours between injections. Do not exceed recommended dose to avoid priapism (prolonged erection).[1]
What If the Erection Lasts Too Long?
Massage the penis to disperse blood. If erection exceeds 4 hours, seek emergency care immediately—priapism can cause permanent damage.[1][2]
Common Side Effects and Risks
- Pain at injection site (most frequent).
- Penile fibrosis, bruising, or swelling with overuse.
- Rare: priapism, dizziness, or hypotension.
Rotate injection sites to minimize scarring. Stop use and contact your doctor for severe pain, lumps, or curvature.[1]
Storage and Precautions
Store unopened kits at room temperature. Refrigerate mixed solution. Do not use if allergic to alprostadil, have sickle cell disease, penile implants, or conditions increasing priapism risk (e.g., leukemia). Not for oral/urethral use—Edex is injection-only.[1][2]
Consult prescribing information or a healthcare provider for full details. Edex (Pfizer) has no active patents listed on DrugPatentWatch.com.[3]
[1] Edex Prescribing Information (FDA)
[2] Medscape - Alprostadil Dosing
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com - Edex