Muse Suppository: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Muse Suppository (alprostadil) is a urethral suppository used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. It belongs to the prostaglandin drug class and works by increasing blood flow to the penis to help produce an erection. It is inserted into the opening of the penis before sexual activity. Muse was discontinued in June 2024 and is no longer available in the U.S.

What is Muse Suppository

Muse is a urethral suppository medicine that is inserted into the opening of the penis to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adults. Its active ingredient, alprostadil, is a lab-made version of a natural body chemical called prostaglandin E1. Muse was discontinued in June 2024 and is no longer available in the U.S.

Muse Suppository uses

• Erectile dysfunction

Benefits of Muse Suppository

• Helps treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men.
• Helps increase blood flow to the penis to produce an erection.
• Can provide an erection within about 5–10 minutes after use.
• Offers a non-injection treatment option for ED.
• May help improve sexual function and confidence when effective.

How Muse Suppository works

Muse contains alprostadil, a man-made version of a natural body chemical called prostaglandin E1. It widens the blood vessels and relaxes the muscles around the penis, letting more blood flow in so an erection can happen.

Muse Suppository dosage

Use directly after urinating and before sexual intercourse, since urine in the urethra helps the medicine absorb. Shake out any excess urine after peeing, then wash and dry your hands. While sitting or standing, slowly insert the applicator tip into the urethra, press the button to release the pellet, then remove the empty applicator. After inserting, gently roll the penis between your hands to help spread the medicine and reduce burning. Stretch or pull the penis to its full length before inserting the applicator so the urethra is straight.

Do not use more than twice within a 24-hour period. Your prescriber may adjust your dose over time until you reach an amount that works for you. People older than 65 can use the same doses as younger adults, but should have their heart health checked first since sexual activity is a vigorous physical activity.

Available forms and strengths

• Urethral suppository

Side effects of Muse Suppository

Common

• Pain in the penis
• Burning feeling in the urethra
• Pain in the testicles
• Minor bleeding or spotting from the urethra
• Vaginal burning or itching in a female partner
• Dizziness or fainting
• Flu-like symptoms
• Headache
• Back pain
• Pain in the pelvis
• Runny nose
• Low blood pressure

Serious

• Prolonged erection lasting longer than 4 hours
• Painful erection with curving of the penis
• Swelling or pain in the testes
• Severe low blood pressure
• Fainting

Warnings and precautions

• This medicine can lower your blood pressure, which can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, or fainting within an hour of the dose. Sit down right away if this happens so you don't fall.
• This medicine can cause minor bleeding or spotting from injury to the urethra. People taking blood thinners or with bleeding conditions may have a higher risk.
• Although rare, this medicine can cause a painful erection that won't go away (priapism), which can permanently damage the penis if not treated.
• Using this medicine together with blood pressure medications can raise the risk of low blood pressure symptoms like dizziness or fainting.
• This medicine should not be used by people with abnormal penis anatomy, current or frequent urinary tract infections, conditions that cause long-lasting erections, inflammation or infection of the penis, or when sexual activity is not recommended.
• This medicine does not protect against sexually transmitted infections or prevent pregnancy, so other protective measures should be used.
• Muse should not be used for sex with a partner who is pregnant unless a condom is used, because the medicine can be found in semen and may cause uterine contractions.
• Drinking alcohol can contribute to erectile problems, so it may reduce how well this medicine works.
• This medicine can lower blood pressure and cause dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, or fainting, so avoid driving or other risky tasks after using it.

Storage

• Store refrigerated at 2–8°C (36–46°F).
• Keep each suppository in its original unopened foil pouch until use.
• Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
• If needed, unopened pouches may be stored below 30°C (86°F) for up to 14 days.
• Do not expose to temperatures above 30°C (86°F); follow the package instructions if storage conditions are exceeded.
• Keep out of reach and sight of children.

When to see a doctor

• Get medical help right away if you have an erection lasting longer than 4 hours that does not go away with intercourse or masturbation.
• Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice curving of the penis with a painful erection, or swelling or pain in the testes.
• If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or like you might faint after using this medicine, sit down right away to avoid falling and tell your prescriber.

Alternatives

• Alprostadil Intracavernosal Injection
• Vardenafil
• Sildenafil
• Tadalafil