Caverject vs Alprostadil: are they the same?
Caverject is a commercial brand whose active ingredient is exactly Alprostadil. This page explains what that means in practice: where they differ (brand, manufacturer, price, available strengths), why they are clinically equivalent, and when the brand or an authorised generic is the better choice.
Are they the same?
Yes — Caverject contains Alprostadil as its active ingredient. Talking about "Caverject" in clinical terms is the same as talking about Alprostadil at the dose strengths 10mcg, 20mcg, 40mcg. The differences from the authorised generic are brand, manufacturer (Pfizer), excipients, tablet appearance and price — not the active molecule itself.
When Caverject is used
Caverject is approved for erectile dysfunction of vasculogenic, neurogenic, psychogenic or mixed aetiology in adult men.
Mechanisms compared
Because they share the same active ingredient, the mechanism is identical: 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.
Brand or generic — which to choose?
For most patients, authorised generics of Alprostadil are clinically equivalent substitutes for Caverject and typically cost substantially less. The practical differences are manufacturer, excipients (rarely matters except in specific sensitivities), tablet appearance and price. The brand is preferred by some patients for personal reasons or insurance coverage; the generic is the default when cost matters.
Frequently asked questions
Is Caverject the same as Alprostadil? ▾
Clinically yes — Caverject is the brand and Alprostadil is its active ingredient. At equivalent doses (10mcg, 20mcg, 40mcg) they produce the same effect. The difference is brand, manufacturer (Pfizer) and price.
Is generic Alprostadil as effective as Caverject? ▾
Yes. Authorised generics of Alprostadil must demonstrate bioequivalence to the brand. The active substance is the same; average effect is the same. Price is usually substantially lower.
Why does Caverject cost more than generic Alprostadil? ▾
The price difference reflects originator development costs, brand recognition and competition among generic manufacturers. The molecule is identical; the cost is not.
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.