Deep Dive

Injections for ED: What Men Actually Think Once They Try It

Penile injections sound intense. Most guys picture a giant needle and a painful experience. But that’s not what this is.

If you talk to men who’ve actually used injections, the most common responses are:

• “It worked.”

• “I wish I’d tried this sooner.”

• “It wasn’t nearly as bad as I thought.”

And sometimes: “It gave me my confidence back.”

Let’s walk through the facts, the real-world experiences, and the things that actually help men decide.

Why Injections?

Simple: they work. Pills don’t work for everyone. 

But injections (usually Trimix or a similar combination) have success rates between 80–90%.

They’re fast (5–15 minutes), reliable, and predictable. 

That’s why they’re often recommended for men after prostate cancer treatment or when pills stop working.

What It Actually Involves

• A small needle (like what a diabetic would use).

• A tiny amount of medication injected into the side of the penis.

• Done at home, in private.

You’re usually taught how to do it in clinic. Many men say they barely feel the injection. 

It takes some getting used to, but the mechanics are straightforward.

The medication increases blood flow directly. You don’t have to be aroused. Erections can last 30–60 minutes. 

The dose is adjusted over time to match your needs.

That said, half of men abandon injections within a couple of years. Why? For some, it’s discomfort, or a lack of spontaneity. For others, it’s just not their thing. 

Knowing that going in helps you make an informed decision.

It Takes Practice

In my practice, I usually start men on a lower dose than they’ll ultimately need. 

I’d rather they have a few early attempts that aren’t firm enough than overshoot and end up in the ER.

A touch too much medication can lead to a prolonged erection (4+ hours). That’s a medical emergency. 

Don’t get greedy. And don’t combine injections with ED pills unless directed—you’re stacking risk.

Learning the timing, location, and dose takes a little repetition. But most men pick it up quickly.

Making It More Spontaneous

We talked about this in a previous article. You can draw up the medication in advance and store it in the fridge. 

That way, you don’t have to fumble with vials in the heat of the moment. Some men keep it in a small cooler by the bed to avoid delay.

Not exactly spontaneous but it can be discreet, efficient, and effective.

What Men Say Afterward

• “It felt like me again.”

• “It’s not my favorite, but it’s reliable.”

• “I don’t use it every time, but I know I can.”

• “My partner was emotional. We hadn’t been this close in years.”

Who It’s For

• Men who want options

• Men who don’t respond to pills

• Men after prostate cancer surgery or radiation

• Men who want a reliable solution, even if it’s not spontaneous

Injections aren’t permanent. You can stop anytime. You can use them occasionally or regularly. The point is: they work.

They’re not for everyone, though. 

Injections may not be ideal if you have a bleeding disorder, severe dexterity issues, penile scarring or curvature, or very low tolerance for needles.

Side effects can include bruising, pain at the injection site, prolonged erection (priapism), or fibrosis over time. 

That’s why it’s essential to have a full discussion with your doctor before starting, ideally with a test dose in the clinic and a clear plan for follow-up.

Final Word

Injections aren’t for everyone. But they’re also not a last resort. They’re a real, proven, underused tool.

Ask your doctor about them. Try a test dose in a safe setting. See what it’s actually like.

For more on technique, dosing, and ways to reduce hassle, check out our earlier article on how injections fit into your ED toolbox.