Vitaros cream is used to treat Erectile Dysfunction (impotence).

Vitaros cream contains the active ingredient alprostadil. Alprostadil is a type of medicine called a prostaglandin.

An erection is caused by a complex chain of events. The nervous system sends signals that trigger the release of active chemicals, which includes prostaglandin E. This chemical causes the blood vessels that enter the penis to widen, and the vessels that exit the penis to constrict. This allows for more blood to enter, whilst stopping blood from leaving the penis. The increased blood flow to the penis causes the erectile tissue to swell, resulting in an erection.

The active ingredient in Vitaros (alprostadil) is a synthetic form of the naturally occurring chemical prostaglandin E. This chemical plays a pivotal role in the erection process. When administered directly into the urethra (the opening of the penis), alprostadil will widen and constrict the necessary blood vessels, causing the penis to become rigid and erect.

Vitaros cream is administered directly into the tip of the penis. To achieve this, open the tip of the penis with one hand whilst holding the Accudose container with the other hand. Position the container just over the opening of the penis and push down on the plunger. This will release the cream from the container. Continue to push down on the plunger until all of the cream has been expelled. Do not insert the tip of the container into the opening of the penis.

Next, hold the penis in an upright position for 30 seconds. This will allow the cream to penetrate. It is likely that a small amount of excess cream will remain on the tip of the penis. This excess should be gently massaged into the skin around the opening of the penis using a fingertip. After successful application, wash hands thoroughly, as accidental contact with eyes can cause irritation. Each Accudose contains one dose of Vitaros cream. These containers are designed for single use and should be discarded after each use.

After administration, Vitaros will take between 5 and 30 minutes to take effect. Once an erection has developed, the effects of the medicine should last between 1-2 hours.

Do not exceed more than one dose in any 24 hour period. Also, do not use more than three doses in any seven day period.

An unopened sachet of Vitaros cream should be stored in a fridge between 2-8°C. Vitaros Cream should not be frozen.

Vitaros cream can be stored out of the fridge, below 25°C, for up to three days. If not used within this time, it should be disposed of.

Vitaros cream can make some people feel dizzy for up to 2 hours after use. This can potentially affect one’s ability to safely drive or operate heavy machinery. It is advised not to drive or operate machinery until you know whether the medicine will affect you this way

When using Vitaros cream, it is recommended to wear a condom during sex. This applies to vaginal, anal, and oral sex. This is because Vitaros can transfer to your partner, causing unwanted side effects, such as vaginal irritation. Vitaros cream does not provide any protection from sexually transmitted infections. Using a condom will help provide this protection.

If an erection lasts for longer than 4 hours, consult a doctor immediately. A delay in treatment could lead to irreversible damage to the erectile tissue.

Vitaros cream should be used with extra caution in men who suffer from decreased liver or kidney function.

Before using Vitaro cream, it is important to tell your doctor what medicines you are currently taking. This includes prescriptions medicines, as well as over-the-counter purchases. It should also include any herbal or alternative medicines you are taking. Similarly, check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medicine if you are currently using Vitaros cream.

Vitaros cream should never be used with any other erectile dysfunction medicine.

Patients who take medicines for blood clots (anticoagulants) are at greater risk of urethral bleeding after using Vitaros cream.

Alprostadil can enhance the effects of hypertension medicines. If you take a medicine designed to lower your blood pressure, using Vitaros may make you feel dizzy. If you are affected this way, it is recommended to sit or lie down until these symptoms have passed. Examples of hypertension treatments include:

• ACE Inhibitors, such as Enalapril, Lisinopril, and Ramipril
• Calcium channel blockers, such as diltiazem
• Diuretics, such as bendroflumethiazide and furosemide
• Alpha-blockers, such as doxazosin
• Beta-blockers, such as atenolol and propranolol

Cetirizine usually has an effect within 1 hour of taking the syrup.

This medication may cause dizziness for up to two hours after its use. For this reason, it could harm your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Avoid driving or operating machineryuntil you know how this medication affects you and you are certain it won’t affect your performance.

It is recommended that you use a condom during sex, including oral and anal sex, as Vitaros cream may cause side effects, such as vaginal irritation, on your partner.

This medication will not protect you or your partner from sexually transmitted diseases. A condom can provide this protection.

If your erection lasts longer than four hours, consult a doctor immediately. Treatment of this condition should not be delayed longer than six hours, as this can cause damage to the erectile tissue and irreversible erectile dysfunction.