Urethral Suppository: What It Is and How to Use It

Few people know urethral suppositories exist, yet they’re a real option when local delivery matters. A urethral suppository is a tiny pellet or tablet placed into the urethra so medicine works right where it’s needed. The most common prescription is alprostadil (MUSE) for erectile dysfunction, but doctors may use urethral delivery for other local issues too.

This route avoids some systemic side effects of pills and gives fast action. Still, urethral suppositories are prescription-only and not right for everyone. Below are clear, practical steps and safety points so you use them correctly.

How to use a urethral suppository safely

Wash your hands and the genital area with mild soap and water. Most kits include a small applicator—follow the kit instructions. Load the tiny pellet into the applicator as shown. Sit or stand comfortably, gently lift the penis (or expose the urethral opening) and slowly insert the applicator only as far as the instructions indicate. Press to release the pellet, then withdraw the applicator. Stay still for about a minute to let the pellet dissolve.

Do not force the applicator. If you feel sharp pain or resistance, stop and call your healthcare provider. Use the exact dose and timing your doctor prescribed. For alprostadil, effects typically begin in 5–15 minutes and may last up to an hour. Never use more often or at higher doses than recommended.

Side effects, precautions, and quick tips

Common local effects include mild burning, urethral pain, spotting, or redness. Some people feel dizzy or faint—sit down if you feel lightheaded. A dangerous side effect is priapism: an erection lasting over four hours. Seek emergency care immediately if that happens.

Tell your prescriber about heart disease, low or high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, recent urethral surgery, or active urethral infections. Don’t use urethral suppositories if you have severe penile deformity. Also check drug interactions—combining with nitrates or certain blood-pressure medicines can be risky.

Store the kit as directed—usually at room temperature, in a dry place, and out of reach of children. Dispose of used applicators and unused pellets according to local medical-waste rules or the instructions from your pharmacy.

Practical tips: practice the applicator technique at home to reduce anxiety, keep a note of any side effects to report at follow-up, and always use only the product your doctor prescribes. Over-the-counter or homemade urethral inserts are unsafe.

If you have severe pain, fever, unusual discharge, fainting, an applicator you cannot remove, or an erection lasting more than four hours, contact medical help right away. Ask your healthcare provider any questions before you start—clear instructions make this treatment simple and safer to use.