Prostavasin ampoules are a biologic medication used to treat certain serious vascular conditions. These ampoules contain the active ingredient alprostadil at a concentration of 20 mcg, the only strength available for this medication. This medication acts as a potent vasodilator and antiplatelet. This dual effect helps increase blood flow to areas with poor perfusion and prevents clot formation. Due to its potent nature and effectiveness, this medication should only be administered by trained healthcare professionals in an appropriate medical setting, and its use is usually under close supervision.
What are the ingredients in Prostavasin?
Prostavasin ampoules contain the following active ingredient:
Alprostadil: 20 mcg.
In addition to this active ingredient, the ampoules may contain other preservatives and stabilizing agents.
Indications for Use of Prostavasin
Prostavasin ampoules are primarily used for:
Maintaining the continuity of a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA): In newborns with certain congenital heart diseases that require the ductus arteriosus to remain open to ensure blood flow to the lungs or body before surgery.
Treating certain cases of erectile dysfunction (ED): Unresponsive to other treatments, this is done by direct injection into the penis (other forms of alprostadil are available for this purpose).
Treating chronic peripheral arterial occlusive disease (COPD): In some severe cases, to improve blood flow to the extremities.
The treatment aims to improve blood flow in the blood vessels and support vital functions in critical cases.
What are the dosages of Prostavasin?
The dosage of Prostavasin ampoules should be carefully determined by a specialist physician based on the emergency, the patient's age, weight, and general health condition. The medication is prepared for injection and administered via continuous intravenous infusion for most indications.
For newborns with PDA: The dose is carefully determined and adjusted based on the infant's response and close monitoring of cardiac and respiratory function.
For erectile dysfunction: It is injected directly into the penis in very specific doses. This should be administered by the patient after training or by a physician.
For peripheral vascular disease: It is administered via slow intravenous infusion over several hours.
The medication must be prepared and administered with extreme precision by specialists, as incorrect dosages or improper administration methods can be very dangerous.
What are the side effects of Prostavasin?
Prostavasin ampoules may cause some side effects, some of which are common and others can be serious. Side effects vary depending on the method of administration and indication:
Common side effects (with intravenous infusion for PDA):
Fever, redness, and facial flushing.
Apnea, especially in low-birth-weight newborns.
Slow or rapid heartbeat.
Low blood pressure.
Swelling in the legs.
Common side effects (with direct injection into the penis for erectile dysfunction):
Penile pain.
Priapism (an erection lasting more than 4 hours - priapism): A painful erection that lasts for a very long time, requiring immediate medical attention.
Bruising or scarring at the injection site.