MUSE for erection problems

Examples

Generic Name	Brand Name
alprostadil	prostaglandin E1

MUSE stands for "medicated urethral system for erections." The medication is a small pellet that is inserted inside the opening at the end of the penis (urethra). The applicator has a thin tube that contains the pellet of medication. The tube is inserted into the urethra. By pressing a button on the applicator, you release the pellet. The medication is absorbed through the membrane that lines the inside of the urethra. An erection develops in about 10 minutes and lasts at least 30 minutes, but usually less than 60 minutes.

See an illustration of MUSE (transurethral therapy).

Your doctor may have you try this medication while you are in the office. This allows the doctor to see how well the medication works, see whether you can properly use the medication, and check for adverse reactions, such as a painfully long-lasting erection (priapism) or an allergic reaction.

How It Works

The medication relaxes the muscles in the surrounding blood vessels of the penis, increasing the blood flow into the penis. This allows an erection to occur. The medication is inserted into the penis before sex. The duration of action depends on how much medication is inserted.

Long-term use of MUSE may improve a man's ability to have erections, particularly in men whose erection problems have psychological causes.

Why It Is Used

This medication may be prescribed for erection problems (erectile dysfunction) that are caused by psychological or physical problems, or both. Short-term use may help increase confidence in men whose erection problems are psychological.

How Well It Works

This medication is effective, but studies report varying percentages of positive results; 30% to 65% of men had erections sufficient for intercourse. About one-third of men who use it experience mild to moderate urethral pain, which causes some men to discontinue use.¹

Side Effects

Side effects of MUSE are usually minor and may include:

• Pain. About one-third of men complain of mild to moderate urethral ache, which causes some men to discontinue use.¹
• Mild injury to the urethra, such as a small scrape that produces a drop of blood at the tip of the urethra.
• Low blood pressure (uncommon).

The MUSE system does not cause bruising or scar tissue, like injections may.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

When considering MUSE, it is important to include your partner in your decision.

This medication is less likely to be effective in men whose blood flow into or out of the penis is severely impaired.

Partners of men who have vision problems or who may have difficulty inserting the pellet can be taught how to use these products.

This medication can be used by men who are taking medication to prevent blood clots (anticoagulants), such as warfarin [Coumadin, for example]).

The medication may cause irritation to the vagina of the man's partner when he ejaculates.

When you use this medication, your partner should avoid performing oral sex.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Author:	Ralph Poore	Last Updated June 13, 2006
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology/Oncology
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