MUSE (Alprostadil)

MUSE is the tablet version of Alprostadil which is used to treat impotence (erectile dysfunction). It is another option to Viagra, Cialis and Levitra and works by relaxing and opening the blood vessels within the penis which increases blood flow and causes an erection.&

Other versions of Alprostadil include Viridal Duo.

Preparation for using MUSE

This tablet is inserted into the urethra (tube which opens at the end of the penis) and causes an erection within 30 minutes.

Make sure that you visit the toilet before using MUSE. Urinating before doing so will ensure that your moist urethra will dissolve the tablet easily. It is vital that this medication is dissolved to be of any use.

Once you have done so, sit down or walk around for about 10 minutes or so until an erection occurs.

Do NOT use more than two doses within a 24 hour period. Do NOT use more than 7 doses within 7 days.

Any unopened pouches must be stored in your fridge at 2 to 8C. But they can be kept outside of the fridge up to 14 days before usage.

MUSE caution

MUSE must be used with caution by people with bleeding disorders such as haemophilia.

MUSE avoidance

MUSE must not be taken in the following cases:

• Teenagers under 18
• Women
• Physical abnormalities of the penis
• Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)
• Balantitis (inflammation of the head of the penis)
• Medical conditions in which sexual activity is not advisable, e.g. heart disorders
• Bone cancer
• Leukaemia
• Sickle cell disease

Plus if you experience an allergic reaction whilst taking MUSE then stop taking this medication and consult your GP.

MUSE side effects

All forms of medication for impotence cause side effects. Some men find that they experience only a few side effects whereas others suffer from a whole range of effects.

We can never be exactly sure how someone will react to a particular medication.

A list of side effects for MUSE:

• Minor bleeding in the urethra
• Burning pain in the urethra
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Your partner experiences vaginal burning or itching
• Penis pain
• Testicle pain
• Priapism (Prolonged erection after 4 hours)
• Fibrous tissue develops within the penis
• Rapid pulse
• Fainting
• Headache
• Dizziness

There may be more side effects than these which are mentioned by the drug’s manufacturer. Read the labelling carefully.

Warnings about MUSE

There are a few precautions you need to take before using MUSE. Read the instructions carefully and follow them to the letter.

Be aware that medication for erectile dysfunction can react badly with other types of medicine. If you are thinking of taking a combination of drugs then check with your GP or pharmacist first before doing so.

If, for example, you are taking a prescription medicine and then decide to take MUSE then these two may react with each other which could have unpleasant consequences for your health. One example of this is the drug Warfarin which is used to prevent blood clotting.

Conversely, if you are already using medication for impotence and are looking to take an over the counter or herbal medicine then, again, check first with your GP.

MUSE can cause dizziness or fainting so avoid driving or operating any machinery. Do this until you are used to the effects of this medication.

If your partner is pregnant or may be pregnant then use a condom which will prevent MUSE from causing irritation to your partner’s vagina. This will also avoid any risk to the developing baby.

It is a good idea to use a condom to protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Another reason is that the special applicator which is included with your medication may cause bleeding in your urethra. This can increases the risk of transmitting an STD.