Caverject vs Plan B: side-by-side comparison
Caverject (Erectile Dysfunction (ED)) and Plan B (Hormones and Birth Control) belong to different therapeutic classes and are rarely interchangeable. This page compares the medications' purposes, mechanisms and the situations where each is used.
| Property | Caverject | Plan B |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Alprostadil | Levonorgestrel |
| Manufacturer | Pfizer | Foundation Consumer Healthcare |
| Class | Erectile Dysfunction (ED) | Hormones and Birth Control |
| Strengths | 10mcg, 20mcg, 40mcg | 1.5mg |
| Forms | injection | tablet |
What's the same
Caverject and Plan B are used in very different patients, and the points in common are limited. The main shared element is that both meet regulatory standards for efficacy and safety and benefit from pharmacist oversight.
Key differences
Caverject belongs to Erectile Dysfunction (ED) while Plan B belongs to Hormones and Birth Control. Indications, mechanisms and target populations differ. The comparison is most useful when a clinician has mentioned both medications and the patient wants to understand where each fits.
Mechanism and action
Caverject: Alprostadil binds prostaglandin E receptors on smooth muscle of the corpus cavernosum, triggering cAMP-mediated relaxation of cavernosal smooth muscle independent of the nitric oxide pathway used by PDE5 inhibitors. Plan B: Plan B's primary mechanism is delaying or preventing ovulation when taken before the LH surge.
When Caverject is preferred
Caverject is approved for erectile dysfunction of vasculogenic, neurogenic, psychogenic or mixed aetiology in adult men.
When Plan B is preferred
Plan B is indicated for emergency contraception after unprotected intercourse or known/suspected contraceptive failure, in women of reproductive age.
Frequently asked questions
Is Caverject or Plan B better? ▾
Caverject and Plan B are not interchangeable — they treat different conditions. Asking which is "better" is meaningful only when a clinician has weighed both for the same specific clinical scenario.
Can I switch from Caverject to Plan B? ▾
Switching between Caverject and Plan B is rarely an appropriate decision since they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. The real question is usually whether the diagnosis calls for one medication or the other — which the prescriber resolves.
Do Caverject and Plan B have the same side effects? ▾
No — they belong to different classes and have distinct side-effect profiles. Each medication has its own prescribing information.
More Caverject comparisons
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.