This review analyzed the effectiveness and safety of prostaglandin E1 in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common medical problems among men. ED may have a dramatic impact on the quality of life of men and their partners.

Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) is a naturally occurring hormone which causes dilation (widening) of blood vessels. PGE1 is commonly used to treat ED. Men either inject PGE1 into their penis, or insert a small pellet containing the drug into the opening at the end of the penis (into the urethra).

The current review examined the safety and effectiveness of PGE1 in ED. Four trials, including a total of 1873 men with ED, were included in this analysis.

Men using PGE1 were seven times more likely to have at least one successful intercourse compared to untreated men or men receiving a placebo (a substance with no effect on the body). One study reported at least one successful intercourse among 63.6% of men receiving PGE1. In another study, 55.5% of men receiving PGE1 reported a “good” or “excellent” response to treatment.

The most common adverse effects reported were penile pain and minor urethra injury. Adverse effects were found to occur more often and intensely as the dose of PGE1 increased. In one of the studies reviewed, penile pain was reported among 9% of men receiving 125 mcg of PGE1, and in 18% of men receiving 1000 mcg of PGE1.

The researchers concluded that PGE1 is a safe and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction, and that PGE1 resulted in a high percentage of men achieving satisfactory sexual intercourse.

Consult with your physician regarding prostaglandin E1 for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.