Can Erectile Dysfunction Be Treated With Injections?

Yes. Injectable treatment can be an effective option for erectile dysfunction (ED) when oral medicines are ineffective, unsuitable, or do not provide satisfactory results. These medicines are injected directly into the erectile tissue to produce an erection.

Intracavernosal injection therapy involves injecting a prescribed medication into the side of the penis. The medicine acts locally to increase blood flow and help produce an erection, usually without requiring the same nerve pathway involved in naturally stimulated erections.

Injection therapy may be considered for men who:

• Do not respond adequately to PDE5 inhibitor tablets
• Cannot take PDE5 inhibitors because of contraindications
• Have certain neurological or vascular causes of ED
• Need an alternative non-surgical treatment option

The medication and dose must be selected individually. A healthcare professional should provide proper instruction on injection technique and dosing.

Possible side effects can include penile pain, prolonged erection (priapism), bleeding, bruising, or scar tissue formation. An erection lasting unusually long requires urgent medical attention because priapism can damage erectile tissue.

Injection therapy is not suitable for every patient, so a medical assessment is important before starting treatment. The EAU includes intracavernosal injection therapy among established treatment options for erectile dysfunction.

SCI International Hospital

At SCI International Hospital, Dr. Gautam Banga evaluates the cause and severity of erectile dysfunction before considering injection therapy. When appropriate, patients can be guided regarding the suitable medication, dosage, injection technique, safety precautions, and other available treatment options.