Priapism

The advertisements on TV for the major Erectile dysfunction (ED) drugs always advise you to “seek medical attention if you have an erection lasting longer then 4-hours”. One side effect from drugs to treat ED can be a prolonged erection (Priapism – an erection lasting longer than four hours). A prolonged erection may also be caused by other treatments such as injections and MUSE suppositories.

Priapism is a serious medical condition, because the penis is deprived of oxygen, which permanently damages and destroys erectile tissue. These warnings should be taken seriously and medical attention sought immediately. Often times, your doctor may give you an information card similar to the Sloan-Kettering Wallet Card for patients using penile injections. This card details the serious nature of priapism and advises the attending medical professional of treatment options and other information.