- Men's Health
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by Skippack Pharmacy
Reverse Agent Injectable Medication: What to Know
If you’re using injectable medications for erectile dysfunction—like Trimix, Quadmix, or alprostadil (PGE1), you’ve likely been told about their effectiveness in helping achieve a firm, reliable erection. But what happens if the medication works too well?
That’s where a reverse agent comes in.
What Is a reverse agent?
A reverse agent is an injection used to treat erections that last more than 4 hours (also called Priapism), and do not go away on their own. This medication is most commonly phenylephrine. Priapism is an emergency because it can lead to tissue damage in the penis. This reverse agent shrinks blood vessels, and allows the blood to leave the penis.
When to use it
You should consider using a reverse agent if your erection lasts more than 4 hours after injection therapy. At that point it’s a situation that requires action.
If you don’t have a reverse agent on hand, go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
How it works
Most commonly, a reverse agent contains:
- Phenylephrine: A medication that constricts blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the penis.
- It’s injected directly into the side of the penis (similar to your ED injection) but has the opposite effect—reducing the erection.
It must be used carefully and under guidance, especially if you have blood pressure issues or heart conditions.
Should you keep one at home?
If you are regularly using injection therapy for erectile dysfunction, you may be recommended to keep a reverse agent kit. This reversal kit is a safety net in case you need it. You can ask your pharmacy if a kit is available, how to store and administer it, and what to do if the reversal doesn’t work quickly.
OVERVIEW OF REVERSAL AGENTS
Using injection therapy for erectile dysfunction is effective—but with powerful medications comes the need for safety planning. A reverse agent like phenylephrine gives you peace of mind and protects your long-term health if complications arise.
If you’re starting or currently using injectable ED medications, talk to your provider or pharmacist about:
- Whether you need a reversal agent
- How to use it properly
- When to seek emergency care
Skippack Pharmacy: Your Partner in Men’s Health
Need help or have questions about ED injection therapy and safety kits? Stop by or call our pharmacy for a confidential consultation. We’re here to support your health with professionalism, compassion, and trusted expertise.
