Trimix (drug)

Trimix (drug) is a non-specific term for a pharmaceutical preparation that contains three active ingredients. In the context of erectile dysfunction treatment, Trimix typically refers to a mixture of phentolamine, papaverine, and prostaglandin E1.

Composition

Trimix is a compounded medication that consists of three drugs, each of which has a different mechanism of action. The three drugs are:

• Phentolamine: This is a nonselective alpha-adrenergic antagonist. It blocks alpha-1 and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which results in smooth muscle relaxation in the corpus cavernosum and allows for increased blood flow.

• Papaverine: This is a vasodilator that inhibits phosphodiesterase, leading to increased levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the corpus cavernosum. This results in smooth muscle relaxation and increased blood flow.

• Prostaglandin E1: This is a potent vasodilator and smooth muscle relaxant. It is the only one of the three drugs that is naturally found in the body.

Usage

Trimix is used to treat erectile dysfunction. It is typically used when other treatments, such as oral medications, are not effective. The medication is injected directly into the corpus cavernosum of the penis.

Side Effects

Possible side effects of Trimix include pain at the injection site, priapism (a prolonged erection that can last for several hours), and fibrosis (the development of fibrous tissue).

See Also

• Erectile Dysfunction
• Phentolamine
• Papaverine
• Prostaglandin E1