Intracavernosal injections (ICIs) are a fast, direct way to treat erectile dysfunction. Instead of taking a pill, a small dose of medicine is injected into the penis. The result is usually faster and more reliable erections, especially when oral drugs don’t work.
Common medicines used in ICIs include alprostadil, papaverine, and phentolamine, either alone or in combination. Alprostadil is the most widely used and often produces an erection within 5 to 20 minutes that can last up to an hour. Doctors tailor the dose for each person to find the lowest amount that works reliably.
ICIs are a good option when oral treatments fail, when nerve injury affects erectile function (after prostate surgery, for example), or when a predictable response is needed. Men with certain medical conditions—like a history of sickle cell disease or severe penile scarring—may not be candidates. Always discuss your health history and current medications with your provider before starting injections.
Training matters. A clinician should teach you the injection technique, needle handling, and the exact dose. Keep it clean: wash hands and the injection site, use the supplied syringe and needle, and rotate injection sites along the side of the penis to reduce scarring. Store medication as instructed—some need refrigeration—and check expiration dates.
Know the risks. Mild pain, bruising, or minor bleeding at the injection site are common. More serious issues include priapism (an erection lasting more than four hours), which is a medical emergency and needs immediate treatment to avoid permanent damage. Repeated injections can cause fibrotic tissue or curvature; rotating sites and using the lowest effective dose lowers that risk.
Dosing is personal. Doctors usually start low and increase slowly during supervised visits until you find a dose that works without troubling side effects. Never increase the dose on your own. If you’re on blood thinners or have bleeding problems, tell your clinician—extra caution or alternative treatments may be needed.
What to expect emotionally and practically: injections can feel awkward at first. Many men adjust quickly and appreciate the reliable results. If anxiety about self-injection is the main barrier, ask about clinic-administered injections or devices that help. Counseling for sexual partners often helps too.
If you’re curious about whether intracavernosal injections are right for you, bring it up with your doctor. They can explain options, show the technique, and help you weigh benefits and risks. Safe, supervised use makes ICIs a powerful tool for restoring intimacy and confidence when other options fall short.
Thinking sildenafil is your only hope for erectile dysfunction? Think again. This article takes a deep look at how sildenafil stacks up against non-PDE5 inhibitor treatments like injections, vacuum pumps, and hormone therapy. You’ll discover practical info, surprising stats, tips, and what real-world results and comfort levels look like for each option. Grab all the details you need before making your choice—for yourself or someone you care about.
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