Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a medical condition in men’s health where their ability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual function is compromised. ED is among the most common male sexual disorders, affecting up to 30 million men in the United States alone. While it can lead to significant physical and psychological distress, effective treatments are available. This article provides an overview of ED, including its causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.
There are numerous potential causes of ED, including physical health issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure; psychological factors like depression or anxiety; relationship problems; lifestyle habits such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption; medications that interfere with erectile function; and hormonal imbalances.
Diagnosis of ED typically begins with a thorough physical exam, which may include laboratory tests, an assessment of risk factors for underlying health problems, and psychological assessments. Depending on the results of these tests, treatment options may be recommended. Treatment options can include lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking or reducing alcohol consumption; medications that increase blood flow to the penis and stimulate erections; penile pumps, injections, or implants; psychological counseling to address any relationship problems or emotional issues related to ED; and, in rare cases, surgery.
Our medical office provides penile injection therapy for patients who are seeking to have an alternative to oral ED medications. Penile injection therapy is more effective in having a longer and more powerful erection than oral ED medications. Please contact us today to schedule your appointment today.
What is a penile injection therapy for ED?
Penile injection therapy is a non-invasive, drug-based treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). Through the use of injectable medications like Trimix, Bimix, or Quadmix, our healthcare provider can prescribe and teach you how to directly deliver medication to the base of the penis. These injection therapies are vasodilators that work by widening blood vessels and causing more blood flow to the penis. Penile injection therapy helps men achieve a longer and more effective erection.
What to expect?
First you will meet with our healthcare provider and he will go over your medical issues and do a physical exam. If you are a good candidate for penile injection therapy, he will then order the medication for you and teach you how to perform the injections on your own. During the procedure, a healthcare provider will administer one or more injections into the corpora cavernosa vein of the penis.
Drug Treatment Option for Men Suffering From Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
It involves the self-injection of prescribed medications directly into the penis. This method of treatment has been proven to be highly effective in helping men with ED achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual stimulation and intercourse.
What are the common penile injections?
The 3 most commonly used medications for injection therapy are Trimix, Bimix, and Papaverine. These medications are typically created by compounding pharmacies.
Trimix Injections:
This is a type of penile injection therapy used to treat erectile dysfunction. Trimix injections work by injecting a combination of three different medications into the penis, which helps relax the muscles in the area and allows for improved blood flow. The effect usually lasts up to an hour and provides relief from ED symptoms.
This treatment option can be used as needed or on a regular basis to help ensure an active and satisfying sex life. It is important to remember that Trimix injections should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they may cause serious side effects if not administered correctly.
Alprostadil (prostaglandin e1) is a common TriMix ingredient. It’s also available in FDA-approved erectile dysfunction medications, including Edex and Caverject.
Bimix Injections:
Bimix injections are similar to Trimix injections, except that only two medications are used. This treatment option is ideal for men who want a quick solution but don’t need the extra strength of three medications. Bimix typically lasts up to an hour and can be taken as needed or on a regular basis.
Papaverine Injections:
Papaverine injections are a type of penile injection therapy used to treat erectile dysfunction. This treatment works by directly relaxing the muscles in the penis, which allows for improved blood flow and an erection that lasts up to an hour. This therapy can be taken as needed or on a regular basis to help ensure an active and satisfying sex life.
How do you give yourself penile injections for ED?
Storing the medication:
Store your medication at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Make sure to keep it in a secure place where others cannot access it.
Preparing the injection:
1. Wash your hands with soap and water before handling the medication or syringe.
2. Remove the cap from the needle and carefully draw the medication into the syringe.
3. Be sure to check the dosage and strength before injecting, as mistakes can have serious consequences.
4. Make sure the injection site is free of debris by using an alcohol swab to disinfect it.
Injecting the medication:
- Clean and alcohol swab the injection area
- Choose a comfortable position for the first injection (e.g., seated or standing).
- Place your thumb and fore or index finger on either side of the penis and gently pull your skin to create a loose, relaxed area.
- Insert the needle at an angle of 45-90 degrees into the chosen site (usually the top or side of the penis or corpora cavernosa).
- Push the plunger slowly to inject the medication. Make sure there are no air bubbles in the syringe.
- Once finished, remove the needle and massage the area gently to ensure that none of the medication is left in the erectile tissue.
- Dispose of all syringes and needles carefully in a sharps container after each use.
Follow-up care:
It is important to follow up with your doctor to ensure that the dosage and ED treatment plan are appropriate. You should also revisit any potential side effects or other issues that could arise due to the use of penile injections. Additionally, it is important to let your doctor know if you experience any pain or irritation at the injection site or bleeding in the urethra.
Finally, it is important to practice safe sex and use condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections or diseases. Penile injections may increase your chances of contracting an infection, so be sure to take precautions. Speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.