Open Access

CASE REPORT

“A hard pill to swallow”: a case series of chlorpromazine-induced priapism

Matthew Kwon^1,*, Kathleen Lockhart¹, Hugh Reid², Avi Raman¹

1 Department of Urology, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
2 Department of Emergency Medicine, Manning Hospital, Taree, NSW 2430, Australia

* Corresponding Author: Matthew Kwon. Email:

Canadian Journal of Urology 2025, 32(4), 355-358. https://doi.org/10.32604/cju.2025.068631

Received 02 June 2025; Accepted 31 July 2025; Issue published 29 August 2025

Abstract

Priapism is a rare but potentially serious adverse effect of several medications including chlorpromazine, which is commonly used in the treatment of refractory migraine. We describe three cases of ischaemic priapism occurring in men following intravenous chlorpromazine administration for migraine relief. These cases highlight an important but under-recognised complication that can result in long-term erectile dysfunction if not promptly managed. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for this adverse effect and ensure patients are appropriately counselled regarding the need for urgent medical review should symptoms arise.

---

Keywords

---