Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1)
Alprostadil in Switzerland: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Alprostadil in Switzerland under Swissmedic (Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products): prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in CHF. Alprostadil belongs to the Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) class.
- Regulator
- Swissmedic (Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products)
- Currency
- CHF
About Alprostadil
Alprostadil is approved for erectile dysfunction of vasculogenic, neurogenic, psychogenic or mixed aetiology in adult men. Switzerland classifies medicines into categories A and B (prescription-only), C (sold under pharmacist supervision), D (over-the-counter at pharmacies and Drogerien) and E (general retail). Health insurance (Krankenversicherung) covers most prescription costs subject to a deductible (Franchise) and co-payment.
Mechanism and action
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.
Brands and generics in Switzerland
In Switzerland, Alprostadil is typically dispensed as one internationally recognised brand along with their corresponding authorised generics. Swiss Apotheken/pharmacies are densely distributed with strict licensing; pharmacist counselling is integral to dispensing. Drogerien (drugstores) are unique to the Swiss system and sell category D and E medications without a pharmacist on staff. Brand-to-generic substitution is decided by the pharmacist under local Swissmedic (Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products) equivalence rules, and the price difference in CHF is usually substantial.
Online and tele-prescribing access
Swiss online prescription dispensing is regulated by cantonal law, with Swissmedic-licensed services offering tele-prescribing. Cross-border importation for personal use is restricted to small quantities and excludes some controlled substances. For Alprostadil specifically, the legal online options in Switzerland depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under Swissmedic (Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products).
Frequently asked questions
Is Alprostadil available in Switzerland? ▾
Yes — Alprostadil and its brands are available in Switzerland through pharmacies authorised by Swissmedic (Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products), in various strengths depending on the commercial product. Authorised generics offer a lower-cost alternative with the same active substance.
Do I need a prescription for Alprostadil in Switzerland? ▾
Switzerland classifies medicines into categories A and B (prescription-only), C (sold under pharmacist supervision), D (over-the-counter at pharmacies and Drogerien) and E (general retail). Health insurance (Krankenversicherung) covers most prescription costs subject to a deductible (Franchise) and co-payment. The exact status of Alprostadil (Rx or OTC) is determined by Swissmedic (Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products); most active ingredients in the Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Alprostadil cost in Switzerland? ▾
The price in CHF depends on the manufacturer (brand vs authorised generic), the strength and the pack size. Generics are typically substantially cheaper than brands and serve as the economic reference for ongoing use.
Products with Alprostadil in Switzerland
Alprostadil in other countries
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.