ByJohn A
Vitaros Cream: A Complete Guide to Alprostadil for Erectile Dysfunction
Vitaros cream is a prescription treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) that contains the active ingredient alprostadil. Unlike oral ED medicines such as sildenafil or tadalafil, Vitaros is applied directly to the opening at the tip of the penis using a single-use applicator.
For men who have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, Vitaros can provide an alternative treatment option following an appropriate medical assessment. The official UK product information confirms that Vitaros 3 mg/g cream is indicated for adult men with erectile dysfunction.
What Is Vitaros Cream?
Vitaros is a topical formulation of alprostadil, a synthetic version of prostaglandin E1. It is designed to increase blood flow within the penis, helping an erection develop in response to sexual stimulation.
The medicine is supplied in single-dose AccuDose containers. Each container is intended for one administration only.
Because Vitaros is applied locally rather than swallowed as a tablet, it may be considered by some men who cannot use or do not respond adequately to certain oral ED treatments.https://curedpharmacy.com/products/vitaros-cream-alprostadil
How Does Vitaros Cream Work?
Alprostadil works as a vasodilator, meaning it helps relax blood vessels. This increases blood flow into the erectile tissues of the penis and can help produce an erection.
Vitaros does not directly increase sexual desire and does not create an erection without sexual stimulation. Its purpose is to support the physical process required for an erection.
According to the official product information, the onset of effect is generally 5 to 30 minutes after administration, while the duration of effect is approximately 1 to 2 hours, although individual responses vary.
How Is Vitaros Cream Used?
Vitaros should always be used according to the instructions provided by your prescriber or pharmacist.
The official product information explains that the cream is applied to the opening at the tip of the penis rather than inserted deeply into the urethra. The applicator should be held close to the opening while the cream is released.
General instructions include:
- Wash your hands before handling the medicine.
- Remove the single-dose applicator from its sachet.
- Bring the medicine to room temperature if necessary.
- Remove the protective cap.
- Gently widen the opening at the tip of the penis.
- Place the applicator close to the opening without inserting its tip into the penis.
- Release the prescribed amount of cream.
- Keep the penis upright for approximately 30 seconds to allow the cream to enter.
- Dispose of the applicator after use.
- Wash your hands after application.
Do not use a second applicator to compensate if some cream does not enter the urethral opening.
When Should Vitaros Cream Be Applied?
The official product information recommends applying Vitaros approximately 5 to 30 minutes before attempting sexual intercourse. The medicine should be used as needed rather than more frequently than directed by your healthcare professional.
Individual response times can differ, so follow the instructions given specifically for you.
Is Vitaros Cream an Alternative to Viagra or Cialis?
Vitaros works differently from commonly used oral PDE5 inhibitors such as Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil).
Vitaros contains alprostadil and is applied locally, whereas sildenafil and tadalafil are taken orally and work through inhibition of the PDE5 enzyme.
The most appropriate option depends on your health, other medicines, previous treatment response and individual circumstances. A healthcare professional can help determine which treatment may be suitable.
Who May Be Prescribed Vitaros?
Vitaros is indicated for adult men with erectile dysfunction. However, it is not appropriate for everyone.
Your prescriber may consider your:
- Medical history
- Cardiovascular health
- Current medicines
- Previous ED treatments
- Penile anatomy
- Risk of prolonged erections
- Other relevant health conditions
The official product information lists several contraindications, including certain conditions associated with priapism, some penile abnormalities and situations where sexual activity is medically inadvisable.
Possible Side Effects of Vitaros Cream
As with any medicine, Vitaros can cause side effects.
Because it is applied locally, some effects may occur around the penis or urethra. Possible reactions include penile discomfort, burning or irritation. Other reported effects can include dizziness or fainting.
The official product information also warns about priapism, which is a prolonged erection lasting four hours or more. This requires urgent medical attention.
If you experience severe, persistent or unusual symptoms after using Vitaros, contact a healthcare professional.
Important Medicine Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you currently take before using Vitaros.
Particular caution may be required with medicines that affect blood pressure or blood clotting. The official product information also advises against combining Vitaros with other erectile dysfunction treatments unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.
Do not assume that combining different ED treatments will improve results. Doing so without medical advice could increase the risk of adverse effects.
Vitaros Cream and Pregnancy
There are specific precautions concerning sexual intercourse with a woman who could become pregnant.
The official product information states that a condom barrier should be used during intercourse with a woman of child-bearing potential.
If your partner is pregnant or may become pregnant, speak with your healthcare professional or pharmacist for appropriate advice before using Vitaros.
How Should Vitaros Be Stored?
Correct storage helps maintain the quality of the medicine.
Follow the storage instructions supplied with your prescription. The official product information provides specific temperature requirements and states that Vitaros should not be frozen.
Always check the packaging and patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine because storage instructions may be important for maintaining product quality.
Buying Vitaros Cream Online
If you are considering purchasing Vitaros cream online, safety should be a priority.
Vitaros is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. The official medicines database identifies Vitaros 3 mg/g cream as a prescription medicine.
Avoid websites that offer prescription ED medicines without an appropriate medical assessment. Buying medicines from unregulated sources can expose you to counterfeit or incorrectly supplied products.
A legitimate online pharmacy should have an appropriate clinical process and provide medicine through the regulated UK pharmacy system.
Why Choose a Regulated Pharmacy?
Using a regulated pharmacy provides additional safeguards when obtaining prescription medicines.
A proper service should:
- Require appropriate clinical information
- Have qualified healthcare professionals involved in prescribing
- Supply authorised medicines
- Provide clear dosage instructions
- Offer appropriate pharmacist support
- Protect patient information
Cured Pharmacy provides Vitaros Cream through its online pharmacy service, subject to its clinical assessment and prescription process.
Vitaros Cream vs Other ED Treatments
There are several treatment approaches for erectile dysfunction. These include oral PDE5 inhibitors, topical alprostadil and, in some cases, other prescription treatments.
Vitaros may appeal to men who prefer a topical treatment rather than an oral tablet. It also offers an alternative route of administration for some patients who may not be suitable for certain oral ED medicines.
However, effectiveness and tolerability vary between individuals. NICE’s evidence summary notes that alprostadil cream was authorised for treating erectile dysfunction in adult men and that its safety and effectiveness should be considered alongside the available evidence.
Erectile Dysfunction Can Have Underlying Causes
Erectile dysfunction is not always simply a sexual problem. It can sometimes be associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hormonal problems, medication effects, psychological factors or lifestyle issues.
If ED occurs regularly, discussing it with a GP or healthcare professional can be valuable. Identifying an underlying condition may be just as important as treating the erectile difficulty itself.
Lifestyle measures such as regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing excessive alcohol consumption and stopping smoking may also support overall sexual and cardiovascular health.
Final Thoughts
Vitaros cream provides a topical treatment option for adult men experiencing erectile dysfunction. Its active ingredient, alprostadil, works by increasing blood flow to the penis and can generally begin working within 5 to 30 minutes.
For men who prefer a cream rather than an oral ED tablet, Vitaros may be an option when clinically appropriate. However, it is a prescription medicine and should only be used following appropriate professional advice.
If you are considering Vitaros, make sure you obtain it from a legitimate pharmacy, follow the prescribed instructions and discuss any other medicines or health conditions with your prescriber.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Vitaros contains prescription-only alprostadil and may not be suitable for everyone. Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist and seek urgent medical attention for an erection lasting four hours or longer.
