What is Alprostadil?
Alprostadil is a synthetic form of prostaglandin E1. It relaxes the smooth muscle of blood vessels and the erectile tissue and thus triggers an erection directly – independent of sexual stimulation. As an infusion it is also used for severe peripheral arterial disease and in newborns with certain heart defects.
How well studied is Alprostadil?
Efficacy in erectile dysfunction is established by pivotal trials and long-standing use; it is an established option when tablets (PDE-5 inhibitors) do not work or are not tolerated.
What side effects and risks does Alprostadil have?
Penile pain, bruising and injection-site reactions are common. A prolonged erection (priapism) is an emergency and can permanently damage the erectile tissue; with long-term use, hardening/fibrosis of the erectile tissue is possible. The urethral form and cream can cause burning.
Is Alprostadil approved in Germany?
In short: yes. Approved and prescription-only in Germany; intracavernosal injection is usually started under urologist guidance. No known doping relevance. Self-treatment without medical instruction is dangerous because of the risk of priapism and injury.
Sources
Note: We deliberately do not list any doses here. For approved medicines, your doctor sets the dose; for unapproved substances there is no reliable information.