About this page. This is a plain English summary of penile injection therapy for erectile dysfunction. It does not replace medical advice from your own doctor or specialist.
For full information and references, please read the detailed page.
What it is
Penile injection therapy is a treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). A small dose of medication is injected with a very fine needle into the side of the penis. The medicine relaxes the blood vessels and allows blood to flow in, producing an erection.
It is one of the recognised treatments in international urology guidelines.
Who it can suit
Injection therapy is usually considered when:
- Tablets (such as PDE5 inhibitors) have not worked, or are not suitable.
- The man has ED after prostate cancer treatment.
- ED is related to diabetes, blood vessel disease, or nerve conditions.
Suitability is decided after a medical review.
How you start
The first dose is given in the clinic. This is to check how you respond and to find a safe starting dose. The Urology NSW men's health pharmacist then provides one-to-one training, including:
- How to draw up the medicine into the syringe.
- How to find the correct injection site on the side of the penis.
- How to give the injection with as little discomfort as possible.
- How to safely store the medicine and dispose of needles.
Written instructions and diagrams are also provided.
What to expect
The erection usually starts within 5 to 15 minutes. It can last from around 30 minutes to about an hour, depending on the dose and the person. The aim is to find the lowest dose that reliably gives a suitable erection.
Important things to know
- Some pain or aching after the injection is possible, more with some medications than others.
- Bruising or small bleeding at the injection site can happen.
- An erection lasting more than four hours (priapism) is uncommon but is a medical emergency. Patients are given clear instructions on what to do if it happens, including seeking urgent care straight away.
- With long-term use, some men develop scar tissue in the penis. Careful technique and rotating the injection site help reduce this risk.
- Injection therapy is not suitable for everyone. Some blood disorders, penile shape problems, or a high risk of priapism may rule it out.
- This page is general information only. The right plan for you should be decided with your own specialist.
What you can do next
- Read the full detailed page with references.
- Short version: erectile dysfunction.
- Short version: the men's health service.
- Short version: penile prosthesis surgery.
- Request a second opinion on a treatment plan.
- Call 02 8382 6980 to make an appointment.