Virirec Cream: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Virirec Cream contains alprostadil, a prostaglandin E1 vasodilator applied to the tip of the penis to treat erectile dysfunction in men 18 years and older. It works by relaxing smooth muscle and widening blood vessels in the penis to allow an erection to form. The cream is applied shortly before intercourse and is available in two strengths.

What is Virirec Cream

Virirec Cream is a topical cream containing alprostadil, a man-made version of a natural body substance called prostaglandin E1. It is applied directly to the tip of the penis to treat erectile dysfunction.

Virirec Cream uses

• Treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men 18 years of age and older who cannot achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual intercourse.
• Treats erectile dysfunction
• Helps improve the ability to achieve an erection
• Helps maintain an erection in eligible adults

Benefits of Virirec Cream

• Works quickly, with effects usually starting within 5 to 30 minutes
• Does not need to be swallowed, which may suit men who dislike taking pills
• Can be used by many men with other health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure
• May help men who have not responded well to oral ED tablets

How Virirec Cream works

The cream contains alprostadil, which relaxes the smooth muscle and widens blood vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow in and become trapped there. This buildup of blood causes an erection. The cream also contains an ingredient that helps the alprostadil pass through the skin to reach the area where it works, so very little of the drug enters the rest of the body.

Virirec Cream dosage

Apply the cream to the tip of the penis (the meatus) within 5 to 30 minutes before you plan to have intercourse. Wash your hands before applying the cream. Do not insert the tip of the dispenser into the penis opening. Hold the penis upright for about 30 seconds after applying so the cream can be absorbed; any extra cream can be gently rubbed into the area.

Use only one application in any 24-hour period. Each dispenser is for one use only; throw it away after use. Wash your hands after applying, since the cream may irritate the eyes. No dose adjustment is needed for elderly men. This medicine is not intended for use in children or men under 18 years of age. Use a condom if having intercourse with a partner who is pregnant or breastfeeding, or during oral sex.

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Available forms and strengths

• Cream (topical), supplied in single-use dispensers at strengths of 220 mcg and 330 mcg alprostadil per 100 mg of cream

Side effects of Virirec Cream

Common

• Burning or pain at the application site on the penis
• Redness (erythema) of the penis
• Genital pain
• Itching or tingling of the penis
• Swelling of the penis
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Vaginal burning or itching in the female partner

Serious

• Fainting (syncope)
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Priapism (an erection lasting longer than 4 hours)
• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)

Warnings and precautions

• Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to alprostadil or any ingredient in the cream.
• Do not use if you have conditions that could make you more likely to get a prolonged erection, such as sickle cell disease or trait, certain blood disorders, or leukemia.
• Do not use if you have penile abnormalities such as severe curvature, deformation, or urethral/glans infections.
• Do not use if you have a history of fainting, low blood pressure on standing, or a prior heart attack, as these conditions could make sexual activity risky.
• This medicine does not protect against sexually transmitted infections or prevent pregnancy; use a condom for that protection.
• This medicine should not be used for oral sex.
• This medicine should not be used for intercourse with a pregnant partner unless a condom is used, since its effects on human pregnancy have not been studied. This medicine should not be used for intercourse with a breastfeeding partner unless a condom is used.
• The effects of this medicine have not been well studied in people with kidney problems, and side effects or erection effects could be stronger because the drug is partly cleared by the kidney. The safety and effectiveness of this medicine have not been studied in people with liver disease.
• The cream itself contains a small amount of ethanol; other alcohol-related considerations should be discussed with the prescriber.
• Do not drive or do risky activities for 1 to 2 hours after using this medicine, because it can cause dizziness or fainting.

Storage

• Store in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C)
• Do not freeze
• Do not expose to temperatures above 30°C or to direct sunlight
• May be kept at room temperature (not above 30°C) for up to 7 days before use
• Check the expiration date before use and do not use if the product has expired
• When traveling, store in a portable ice pack or cooler; do not store in a car trunk or luggage storage areas where it may get too warm

When to see a doctor

• Get medical help right away if you have an erection that lasts longer than 4 hours, as this can cause permanent damage if not treated quickly.
• If you think you have used too much of this medicine, contact your doctor or your local poison control center.

Alternatives

• Sildenafil
• Tadalafil
• Vardenafil