Understanding Trimix and Intracavernosal Injections - An Alternative to Viagra for Treating Erectile Dysfunction
Most men tend to experience some degree of erectile dysfunction during their lifetime - especially as they age. Health and lifestyle choices impact the quality of erections but many men still require an oral ED medication like Viagra or Cialis. For some men, oral medications, over time, become less effective - necessitating alternative treatments like shockwave therapy or injectable medications like Trimix.
In an ideal case, other interventions that address the underlying pathophysiology of ED, such as health and lifestyle changes, shockwave and/or the P-Shot,, are explored first. However, for treatment-resistant cases, Trimix can be a very effective intervention. In fact, between 80 and 95% of men (the exact rate varies from study to study) report erections that are satisfactory for penetrative sex with Trimix.
Trimix - An Overview
Trimix is an injectable ED medication that contains three separate medications: phentolamine, papaverine, and alprostadil. Each of these medications are formulated to increase blood flow and muscle relaxation - two key aspects of the body’s requirements to attain and maintain an erection. The three medications that make up Trimix are compounded at a specialty pharmacy according to the physician and pharmacist’s recommendations.
Trimix is a prescription medication that should be considered only after trying oral ED medications. It is injected locally into the penis about 20 minutes before sexual activity and, when properly used, causes an erection to emerge within 5 to 20 minutes, lasting between one to two hours in most men. In some men, their erection may go away after orgasm and ejaculation, while in others, their erection may persist.
A consultation with a physician will help determine proper dosage. While there is no standard dosage, there is a typical dosage range for new patients to start with. Depending on effectiveness, an experienced physician and pharmacist may consult to tailor the Trimix concentration and dosage to fit the patient’s needs.
Trimix Precautions
Because Trimix is a prescription and an injectable medication, men should consider precautions and contraindications prior to starting this regimen.
Patients must understand and comply with their physician’s dosing instructions - increasing a dose or frequency may lead to side effects, some of which may require medical intervention.
Proper injection procedures are required, including proper medication storage and safe needle handling and disposal.
Trimix should not be injected anywhere but the penis. The injection should be performed on the lateral aspect of the penile shaft, being careful to avoid the glans and ventral (bottom side) penis where the urethra is and dorsal side (top side) where the blood vessels and nerves reside.
Patients must consult with their physician to ensure their heart is healthy enough for sexual activity.
Trimix should not be used in combination with an oral ED medication.
It’s important to review all current and previous medications, including herbal and over-the-counter medications, with your physician prior to starting Trimix for the first time.
Trimix Injection - Common Side Effects
There are not many side effects associated with Trimix injections and they tend to be mild when they do occur. The most common Trimix injection side effects include:
Slight bleeding at the injection site immediately after injection
Pain, stinging, or soreness at the injection site, which usually is temporary and disappears after a few minutes
Poor hygiene or failure to follow proper injection procedures may increase the risk of infection
Bruising that can occur at the injection site (proper injection technique will minimize or prevent this from happening)
Less Common Trimix Injection Side Effects
The following are less common side effects:
Priapism - an erection lasting more than four hours (see below for more information)
Allergic reaction (hives, swelling, itching, etc.)
Fibrosis or scarring at the injection site
A sudden drop in blood pressure
Increased heart rate
Abnormal heart rhythm
Trimix Injection Side Effects from Overuse or Too High Dosage
Using too much Trimix or using it too frequently can bring about the most serious Trimix side effect: priapism or a prolonged erection lasting four hours or more which does not go away on its own. This condition can become a medical emergency requiring emergency medical care to counteract the erection to ensure that serious and permanent damage is not inflicted on the penis.
Ideally, patients can avoid using an injectable medication. One downside of Trimix, is that once a man starts using this medication, reverting to oral medications becomes less of an option as they tend to lose their effectiveness. Our office offers a comprehensive approach to optimizing erectile function, spontaneity and quality of life. Please visit this page for more information
Trimix - Frequently Asked Questions
How long does trimix last?
Trimix is injected locally into the penis approximately 20 minutes before sexual activity and, when properly used, causes an erection to emerge within 5 to 20 minutes. Erections caused by Trimix last between one to two hours in most men.
Are Trimix injections painful?
Some men experience slight pain, stinging, or soreness at the injection site - however this is usually temporary and disappears after a few minutes.
Does Trimix have any side effects?
In addition to the possibility of minor pain or discomfort, some men may experience slight bleeding at the injection site immediately after injection. Bruising can also occur at the injection site (proper injection technique will minimize or prevent this from happening).
How effective is Trimix?
Trimix can be highly effective, with 80 to 95% of men (the exact rate varies from study to study) reporting erections that are satisfactory for penetrative sex with Trimix.
Can I use Trimix alongside my ED medications?
Trimix should not be used in combination with an oral ED medication. Additionally, It’s important to review all current and previous medications with your physician prior to starting Trimix for the first time.