XIAFLEX is non surgical medical treatment used for Peyronie’s disease, a condition where the penis becomes curved due to scar tissue or plaque. This treatment can help reduce curvature in many patients. Before using this, always read its safety information, risks, and precautions. This blog explains everything about Xiaflex treatment in simple terms.
Who Should NOT Receive XIAFLEX?
You should not receive XIAFLEX if
- The plaque in your penis is located in the urethral tube where urine passes through.
- You are allergic to collagenase clostridium histolyticum or any ingredient in XIAFLEX.
In these cases your doctor recommends other treatments.
Serious Side Effects of XIAFLEX
Although Xiaflex is helpful it can sometimes cause some serious side effects. These are rare but important to understand.
1. Penile Fracture
One of the most serious risks is a penile fracture also called corporal rupture. This happens when the internal tissue of the penis gets damaged after injection. It may need surgery to repair.
Damage may not always fully heal even after treatment.
Warning signs such as :
- A popping sound or feeling in the penis during erection
- Sudden loss of erection
- Severe pain in the penis
- Swelling and dark purple bruising
- Difficulty in passing urine
Contact your doctor if any of these symptoms of corporal rupture or serious injury to the penis are listed above.
2. Internal Bleeding or Bruising
After injecting blood vessels in the penis may break and cause a collection of blood under the skin.
In some cases this may require a medical procedure to drain the blood.
If not treated properly it can cause skin damage or tissue death, which may recover with surgery.
Important Sexual Activity Instructions
To avoid complications:
- Do not have sex or sexual activity between the first and second injection of a treatment cycle.
- Avoid sexual activity for at least 4 weeks after the second injection.
- Only restarts sexual activity when pain and swelling are fully gone.
Following these instructions is very important for safe healing.
Allergy Reactions
Some people have serious allergic reaction to XIAFLEX because it contains proteins from bacteria.
Signs of allergy
- Hives or skin rash
- Swelling of face or lips
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Feel low blood pressure
- Feel dizziness
If any of these symptoms happen you should immediately contact with doctor.
Back Pain and Body Reactions
Some patients may feel sudden back pain after injection. This pain can be spread to legs, arms, chest, or feet Include your muscle spasms make it hard to walk. Normally, this pain goes away within 15 minutes but in some cases, it may last long. Always inform your doctor if this happens.
In most cases it resolves within 15 minutes but always inform your doctor if it happens.
Fainting or Dizziness
Some men may feel faint or actually faint after treatment especially if they experience strong pain. If you feel dizzy.
- Lie down immediately
- Rest until symptoms disappear
Medical Conditions and Precautions Before Treatment
Before getting Xiaflex tell your doctor if you:
- Had allergic reactions to previous injections
- Have bleeding problems
- Have other serious medical conditions
- Have used XIAFLEX before for any other treatment
Also tell your doctor about:
- All prescription medicines
- Over-the-counter drugs
- Vitamins and herbal supplements
Important Information
Inform if you take blood-thinning medicines as they can increase bleeding risk.
Medicines that may interact with XIAFLEX
Some medicines can increase the risk of bleeding or complications when used with XIAFLEX. If you are taking blood thinners your doctor ask you to stop them temporarily and will guide you when to restart. Never stop medication without doctor’s advice.
What You Should Avoid During Treatment
If you want to reduce risk of complications. Avoid straining your abdominal muscles for example during constipation or bowel movements. Do not use vacuum erection devices during treatment These activities may increase the risk of injury or bleeding.
Common Side Effects of XIAFLEX
Most side effects are mild and improve over time. These include.
- Swelling at injection site
- Bruising on the penis
- Pain or tenderness
- Small blood collection under skin
- Itching in genital area
- Pain during erection
- Mild erectile difficulty
- Skin color changes on penis
- Small lumps at injection site
- Blisters in some cases
- Pain during sex
If any side effect becomes severe or does not improve contact your doctor.
When to call your doctor
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the symptoms of corporal rupture or serious injury to the penis listed above.
- Severe penile pain
- Sudden loss of erection
- Heavy swelling or bruising
- Signs of allergic reaction
- Difficulty walking after injection
- Feel back or chest pain
- See blood in urine
Conclusion
In the end, XIAFLEX is a helpful treatment for Peyronie disease and can improve penile curvature in many patients. But in any medical procedure some risks must be understood clearly.
But understanding side effects and precautions is essential for safe treatment.
First of all, proper analysis of injection technique and following all post-treatment instructions are essential for successful results. Always discuss your full medical history with your doctor before starting treatment and follow all safety guidelines carefully.
