Alprostadil

Patients who suffer from erectile dysfunction sometimes take alprostadil tablets or injections. This medication relaxes the blood vessels in the penis so that more blood flows to the genitals when the man becomes sexually aroused. This makes it more likely that he can get and maintain an erection. This medication is also sometimes prescribed as a diagnostic tool to help determine the cause of erectile dysfunction.

Side Effects/Warnings

Some men experience a side effect in which they cannot get rid of an erection. If you are experiencing an erection that lasts more than four hours, contact your doctor immediately for assistance. Other serious effects of this medication include rapid heartbeat and swelling in the legs. If you develop these effects, have fainting spells or develop hard nodules on your penis, go to the emergency room.