See the DrugPatentWatch profile for edex
How Long Does EDEX Last?
EDEX (alprostadil) produces erections lasting 30 to 60 minutes on average after intracavernous injection, with effects starting within 5 to 20 minutes. Duration varies by dose (5-40 mcg), patient age, health factors like vascular disease, and injection technique. Higher doses may extend effects up to 90 minutes but raise priapism risk.
What Factors Shorten or Extend Duration?
Younger patients or those with mild erectile dysfunction often see 45-60 minute effects. Older men, diabetics, or those with nerve damage report shorter durations (15-30 minutes). Repeated injections within 24 hours shorten subsequent effects due to tachyphylaxis. Avoid food, alcohol, or vasodilators beforehand, as they can prolong or unpredictably alter response.
When Does It Start Working?
Onset is dose-dependent: 5 mcg takes 10-20 minutes; 40 mcg as little as 5 minutes. Inject into the side of the penis corpus cavernosum; massage base for 30 seconds post-injection to distribute. Full rigidity peaks at 10-15 minutes.
Priapism Risks if Effects Last Too Long
Erections over 4 hours signal priapism, a medical emergency requiring ER intervention (e.g., aspiration, phenylephrine). Risk is 0.4% per injection but rises with overuse or high doses. Patients get training to recognize and treat mild cases at home initially, but seek help after 4 hours.
How Often Can You Use EDEX?
Limit to 3 injections per week, with 24 hours between doses in the same site. Rotate sides to avoid fibrosis. Long-term use (up to 18 months in studies) maintains efficacy without tolerance buildup.
EDEX vs. Other ED Injections Like Caverject or Trimix
| Treatment | Active Ingredient | Typical Duration | Onset | Cost per Dose (approx.) |
|-----------|-------------------|------------------|--------|-------------------------|
| EDEX | Alprostadil | 30-60 min | 5-20 min | $30-50 |
| Caverject| Alprostadil | 30-60 min | 5-20 min | $25-45 |
| Trimix | Alprostadil + papaverine + phentolamine | 45-90 min | 5-15 min | $10-20 (compounded) |
EDEX and Caverject are identical (both alprostadil); Trimix often lasts longer but needs pharmacy compounding and refrigeration. No patents block generics; EDEX exclusivity ended years ago.[1]
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com - EDEX patents