Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1)
Alprostadil drug interactions: a practical overview
Drug interactions are the single biggest cause of preventable medication problems. Alprostadil (Alprostadil) interacts to varying degrees with several classes of medication and with a smaller list of foods. This page summarises the practically important ones at 10mcg, 20mcg, 40mcg, framed for a real-world prescription review rather than an exhaustive PDF list.
High-priority interactions for Alprostadil
For Alprostadil, the most clinically relevant interactions are typically with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers, with cardiovascular medications (notably nitrates for several Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) agents), with central nervous system depressants, and with medications affecting blood pressure or heart rate. 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 P…
Working with the pharmacist
A pharmacist review of all current medications is the practical safeguard against unintended interactions with Alprostadil. According to the prescribing information for Alprostadil, the full medication list — prescription, OTC, supplements and recreational substances — should be reviewed before starting and at every dose change at 10mcg, 20mcg, 40mcg.
Frequently asked questions
What's the most important Alprostadil interaction to know? ▾
For most Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) medications, the highest-priority interaction is with nitrate medications used for chest pain — this combination is often a hard contraindication. After that, strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (some antifungals, macrolides) are the next concern at routine 10mcg, 20mcg, 40mcg doses.
Do I need to tell the pharmacist about supplements? ▾
Yes. Supplements and herbal products can interact with Alprostadil in ways that prescription drug-drug interaction databases miss. The pharmacist needs the complete picture — including supplements like St John's Wort, grapefruit-containing products and high-dose vitamins — to flag risks at 10mcg, 20mcg, 40mcg.
Products containing Alprostadil
More on Alprostadil
- With alcoholAlprostadil and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Alprostadil be taken with food?
- Side effectsAlprostadil side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideAlprostadil dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Alprostadil start working?
- DurationHow long does Alprostadil last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.