Edex (Alprostadil Injection): Erectile Dysfunction Treatment, Uses, Dosage & Side Effects
Edex is a prescription medication containing Alprostadil, used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. Unlike oral ED medications like Viagra or Cialis, Edex is injected directly into the penis, offering a fast and targeted response.
It is ideal for men who cannot take PDE5 inhibitors or who haven’t found relief with pills.
✅ What is Edex (Alprostadil)?
Edex is a vasoactive prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), which causes the blood vessels in the penis to relax, allowing blood to flow in and create an erection. It is administered through intracavernosal injection—meaning it is injected directly into the erectile tissue.
✅ How Edex Works
Alprostadil mimics a naturally occurring substance in the body that relaxes smooth muscle tissue and dilates blood vessels. When injected into the corpus cavernosum of the penis, it increases arterial blood flow, producing an erection within 5–20 minutes.
Unlike PDE5 inhibitors, Edex does not require sexual stimulation to be effective.
✅ Approved Use
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in adult men
✅ Edex Dosage and Administration
- Supplied as a single-use vial in doses of 10 mcg, 20 mcg, 40 mcg
- Injected into the side of the penis shaft using a fine needle
- Onset: 5–20 minutes
- Duration: 30–60 minutes
Doctors usually start patients on a lower dose and adjust as needed based on response and tolerability.
Important: Never use more than 3 times per week or more than once in 24 hours.
✅ How Long Does Edex Last?
- Effects typically last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on dosage and individual response.
- Not affected by food or alcohol.
✅ Common Side Effects
- Penile pain (most common)
- Bruising or swelling at injection site
- Prolonged erection (priapism)
- Fibrosis or scar tissue at the injection site
- Minor bleeding
⚠️ Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Help)
- Erections lasting longer than 4 hours
- Severe pain or swelling
- Penile deformity over time
- Infection at the injection site
⚠️ Warnings and Precautions
- Not recommended for men with bleeding disorders, sickle cell disease, or penile implants
- Injection must be done properly to avoid complications
- Rotate injection sites to avoid tissue damage
- Only use under the supervision of a healthcare provider
✅ Edex vs Oral ED Medications
| Feature | Edex (Alprostadil) | Viagra (Sildenafil) | Cialis (Tadalafil) | Stendra (Avanafil) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Route | Injection | Oral | Oral | Oral |
| Onset | 5–20 minutes | 30–60 minutes | 30–60 minutes | 15–30 minutes |
| Duration | 30–60 minutes | 4–6 hours | Up to 36 hours | Up to 6 hours |
| Sexual Stim Required | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Common Side Effect | Penile pain | Headache | Back pain | Flushing |
✅ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does Edex work without sexual stimulation?
Yes, Edex produces an erection regardless of sexual arousal.
Q2: Can I self-inject Edex at home?
Yes, after proper instruction from a doctor, most patients can self-administer it safely.
Q3: Is Edex painful?
Some users experience mild pain or discomfort during or after injection, which usually subsides.
Q4: What if the erection lasts too long?
Contact your doctor immediately if an erection lasts more than 4 hours. This is a medical emergency.
✅ Final Thoughts
Edex is a powerful and effective alternative for men who cannot use or don’t respond to oral ED drugs. Though it requires self-injection, many men find it highly effective, fast-acting, and reliable. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting Edex.
📚 Scientific References
- FDA – Edex Prescribing Information
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov - Mayo Clinic – Alprostadil Injection (Edex)
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/alprostadil-injection - MedlinePlus – Alprostadil
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601207.html - PubMed – Alprostadil Intracavernosal Therapy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9233716/ - Cleveland Clinic – Erectile Dysfunction Injections
https://my.clevelandclinic.org