Cost of Penile Injections for Erectile Dysfunction

Penile injections for erectile dysfunction can cost as little as $3 to $6 per dose from a compounding pharmacy, cheaper per use than oral pills.

Penile injections for erectile dysfunction can cost as little as $3 to $6 per dose from a compounding pharmacy, making them cheaper per use than oral erectile dysfunction pills, which run roughly $20 to $40 per dose. Larger upfront programs and retail prices vary widely, and the total cost depends on the dose, concentration and where you obtain it.

Injections such as Trimix are an option for men who have not had success with oral medication. They are more powerful than pills, and for many men the lower per-dose cost is a meaningful advantage.

How much do penile injections for ED cost?

The per-dose cost is often surprisingly low. From a compounding pharmacy, Trimix can cost about $3 to $6 per dose, well below the $20 to $40 typical of oral pills. Retail prices differ, though — the average retail price for two doses can be over $200 — and structured programs that include training cost more upfront. For example, one clinic's Trimix program is priced around $3,995 and includes dose calibration, self-injection training and obtaining the prescription, with the medication itself extra.

What are Trimix injections?

Trimix is a combination medication injected into the penis. Given about 20 to 30 minutes before sexual activity, it typically produces an erection lasting one to two hours. It works directly on the blood vessels of the penis, which is why it is effective even for men who do not respond to tablets. The MUSE urethral suppository is a related non-pill option, covered in the cost of the MUSE suppository.

What affects the cost

Two main factors drive the price: the amount needed per injection (volume) and the concentration of the medication. A single vial usually contains 5 mL and provides up to about 10 doses, which is why the per-dose cost can be low even when the vial price — around $165 in one example — looks higher. Where you fill the prescription matters too, since compounding pharmacies price differently.

Effectiveness and consultation

Penile injections are highly effective. A 2012 review found that an estimated 89% of users reported satisfying results, and upwards of 95% of men treated with Trimix had success despite no luck with oral medication. Before starting, consult a healthcare provider to confirm injections suit your case and to discuss costs — insurance often does not cover erectile dysfunction injections, and Medicare typically does not either. To weigh this against other approaches, see how to reverse erectile dysfunction and the easiest way to get Viagra. You can return to the male sexual dysfunction section for more.

Frequently asked questions

Are penile injections cheaper than pills?
Per dose, often yes — about $3 to $6 from a compounding pharmacy, versus $20 to $40 for oral pills.
Do they work when pills don't?
Frequently. Over 95% of Trimix users have reported success despite no luck with oral medication.
Does insurance cover them?
Often not. Insurers and Medicare frequently do not cover erectile dysfunction injections.