An intracavernous injection, according to the American Urologic Association, is the most effective non-surgical treatment for ED. Injections into the penis, unlike oral medications, trigger an automatic erection. Injection can be done by the individual 5 minutes prior to sexual activity and should last for no more than 1 hour.
Injection is considered the second line to be used if oral therapy fails. Compounds that can be injected include Alprostadil, Papaverine, and Phentolamine. Alprostadil and Phentolamine are the most common agents used as monotherapy. However, combination therapies are used to increase efficacy and decrease side effects.
Combination therapy includes Tri-Mix, Bi-Mix & Quad-Mix. These products are not commercially available and must be compounded by a specialty compounding pharmacy such as Myerlee Pharmacy and require a prescription from your doctor.