About Vitaros

Vitaros (alprostadil) is a prescription-only, non-invasive, topical cream for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.^[1]

The active ingredient

Vitaros is administered as a cream contained in an AccuDose applicator and is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED)^[1]. It combines two ingredients:

Alprostadil – DDAIP

Alprostadil is the active ingredient. It’s been helping men get an erection for nearly two decades and it is available as a cream.

DDAIP helps the absorption of alprostadil pass through the skin at the tip of the penis and into the right areas to help you get an erection.

Method of administration

Vitaros is applied using an AccuDose applicator into the tip of the penis with onset of erection within 5 to 30 minutes from application.^[1] The duration of effect is approximately 1 to 2 hours. However, the actual duration will vary from patient to patient.^[1]

It is important to apply Vitaros correctly. You can watch a video tutorial on how to administer Vitaros here.

What are the potential side effects?

As with all medications, some side effects may occur.

With Vitaros, these are often mild and mostly localised to the penis, and can include pain, burning or general discomfort.^[1]

If you apply Vitaros incorrectly, you may also experience some penile burning, a tingling sensation or pain^[1] so be sure to read through the application guidance and watch the application video before you apply the medication.

Vitaros may also cause some vaginal irritation in female partners so be sure to let your partner know you are using the medication and using a condom may be useful.^[1]

If you experience any side effects from your medication, stop using Vitaros and speak with your doctor.

How do I store Vitaros?

Vitaros should be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C - 8°C.^[1]
If your package is unopened, you can store it at temperatures below 25 °C for up to 3 days before you use it.^[1] Keep your medication out of direct sunlight.^[1]

Application FAQs

1. How do I maximise the effectiveness of Vitaros?

Please ensure you follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet provided with your medication. We also have a short application support video here and some further application guidance here. Speak with your doctor if you have any queries regarding your medication.

2. How long does Vitaros last?

While the onset of erection is from 5 to 30 minutes, your erection will last about 1hour, and in some cases up to 2 hours. It should subside after you ejaculate.^[1]

3. How do I apply Vitaros?

Please see our Application Guidance page for a step-by-step process and an application video.

4. What side effects may I get from using Vitaros?

Like with all medications, there are some side effects which may occur through use of Vitaros. These are mild in nature and often resolve quickly and include localised burning and itching sensations or a rash.^[1]
Additionally, some side effects have been reported by sexual partners which include mild vaginal burning or itching. It is advised that you use a condom to avoid this.^[1]

5. What factors may reduce my erection after application?

Urinating following application can result in loss of the medication and reduced efficacy of the medication.^[1]

6. Does Vitaros protect me from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

No, the medication offers no protection from STDs so using a condom may be required to protect you and your partner.^[1]

7. Should I tell my partner I am using Vitaros?

It is recommended that you inform your partner when using Vitaros because, in some cases, partners have felt side effects in the genital area.^[1]

8. Should I use a condom?

Yes, you could wear a condom as Vitaros does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases and it may also cause some side effects in your partners genital region. While these side effects have been shown to be mild and not occur in every case, it is better to wear a condom to reduce the likelihood of this happening.^[1]

More FAQ can be found here.

The Vitaros patient information leaflet

This document is a useful resource for you to learn more about your medication, Vitaros. It contains information on how to use Vitaros, possible side effects and further information.

Download now