Tri-mix is a compounded medication containing papaverine, phentolamine and alprostadil (prostaglandin E1) that can be injected directly into the penis to achieve erection for men who have erectile dysfunction.

Compounding medicines is a specialized practice where pharmacists create customized medications tailored to the specific needs of an individual patient. Tri-mix combines three chemicals to create a medication that meets the precise requirements of a prescription. Papavarine is a smooth muscle relaxant and vasodilator. Phentolamine causes blood vessels to expand, which increases blood flow. Alprostadil also acts as a smooth muscle relaxant and dilator of blood vessels. The three chemicals combine to create a more effective treatment for erectile dysfunction than each one individually.

Dosage

Only use Tri-mix as prescribed. Usually, doctors will administer the first dose themselves, so that the proper use of the injectable can be demonstrated. The dose should be injected slowly into the base of the penis, allowing 5 to 10 seconds for it to be completely injected.  This will increase blood flow to the two hollow chambers (corpus caversnosa) that lie along the length of the shaft and results in an erection.

Do not inject more than once each day, more than two days in a row, or more than three times in one week, without first consulting with a doctor.