Does the P-Shot Work? Evidence, Results and What to Expect

Written by Dr Shirin Lakhani, Elite Aesthetics Medical Director

The P-Shot may help some men, but it is not a proven cure for erectile dysfunction. Studies of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) have produced mixed results, and current European Association of Urology guidance recommends PRP injections for ED only within clinical trials. If you are considering treatment, understanding the evidence and having your symptoms assessed are essential. [1]

When erections become less reliable, it can affect your confidence and your relationship. It is understandable to want a lasting solution, particularly if tablets have been disappointing. You deserve clear answers about what a treatment can offer, what remains uncertain and whether another approach would be more appropriate.

What is the P-Shot?

The P-Shot, also called the Priapus Shot, is a penile injection procedure using PRP prepared from your own blood. A blood sample is processed in a centrifuge to separate a platelet-rich component, which is then injected into selected areas of the penis.

Platelets contain growth factors involved in healing. Researchers are investigating whether these signals can improve erectile function. A plausible biological mechanism does not, by itself, demonstrate a reliable benefit in patients. [1]

PRP is also different from prescribed erection injections and penile fillers. These procedures use different substances and serve different purposes. Our P-Shot treatment information explains the service available at Elite Aesthetics.

What does the research say about whether the P-Shot works?

Research provides reasons for interest, but also reasons for caution. Trials usually examine particular PRP preparations and treatment schedules, so their findings do not automatically apply to every branded P-Shot service.

Some controlled trials have reported improvement

A 2021 placebo-controlled trial involving 60 men with mild or moderate ED reported better erectile-function outcomes with PRP. It was a small, single-centre study, and its authors cautioned that the results could not be applied to other PRP separation systems. [2]

Other trials have not shown a benefit over placebo

A 2023 randomised trial involving 61 men found no significant difference in effectiveness between PRP and placebo. Improvements within a treatment group therefore should not automatically be attributed to PRP itself. [3]

Recent reviews also reach different conclusions

A February 2026 review pooling seven trials found no overall advantage in erectile-function scores at one, three or six months. A six-month responder measure favoured platelet-rich therapies, but relied on only three studies. [4]

A July 2026 review of six trials reported better erectile-function scores at six months or later, while emphasising small samples and differing protocols. [5]

What this means for you: PRP remains an emerging treatment with uncertain effectiveness. Neither an encouraging study nor a positive testimonial can predict your result. The EAU’s clinical-trial-only recommendation should be part of an informed discussion before considering PRP for ED. [1]

Why should erectile dysfunction be assessed before considering PRP?

Erection problems can have several causes. The NHS identifies factors including stress, alcohol, medicines, diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol and hormone problems. If the problem keeps happening, see a GP or sexual health clinic: there may be an underlying condition that needs treatment. [6]

Useful things to tell your doctor include when symptoms started, how frequently they occur, whether you have morning erections, which medicines you take and what treatments you have tried. Mention pain, a new curve or other changes as well.

Most PRP research has involved selected men with mild or moderate ED. It should not be treated as proof of benefit for severe ED, major nerve injury or erectile changes following prostate surgery.

Wanting to avoid tablets is a valid preference, but it does not establish that PRP is the right option. Assessment should help you understand your choices and the uncertainties attached to them.

How does the P-Shot compare with established ED treatment?

The NHS describes oral medicines such as sildenafil and tadalafil as the main medical treatments for ED. Vacuum devices and treatment of contributing health or psychological problems are other options. Suitability depends on your health and circumstances. [6]

Do not stop prescribed medication because you are considering PRP. Discuss any change with the clinician responsible for your care.

What results should you realistically expect?

A clinic should explain what it will measure, when it will review you and what happens if you notice no improvement. Useful outcomes include erection firmness, the ability to maintain an erection and your own treatment goals.

There is no dependable percentage chance of success that can be applied to every patient. Results from different studies involve different preparations, schedules and patient groups.

Research often measures outcomes over several months. This is not a promise that you will improve by a particular week, or that benefits will last a year. The number of sessions and the value of repeat treatment also remain uncertain.

Ask for the proposed cost and follow-up arrangements before making a decision. Be cautious about guaranteed outcomes or a recommendation to repeat treatment automatically without reviewing whether it helped.

What does a P-Shot appointment at Elite Aesthetics involve?

Elite’s published treatment information describes doctor-led assessment, blood collection, PRP preparation and targeted injections. The service includes topical numbing and a penile nerve block to help reduce discomfort. A nerve block is itself an injection, and individual experiences vary.

The published service also includes two follow-up appointments and contact from the patient coordinator on the next working day. Ask the team to confirm the precise protocol, timings and inclusions for the option being discussed. Read the appointment and follow-up details.

PRP preparation is one part of the process. Equipment branding or a higher platelet concentration should not be presented as a guarantee of better erectile-function outcomes.

Does the P-Shot hurt, and what are the risks?

Pain relief can reduce discomfort, but treatment should not be described as completely painless or risk-free. Bruising, swelling, bleeding and tenderness can occur after injections. Your doctor should discuss infection risk and any risks associated with the anaesthetic or other materials used.

Using your own blood does not remove every treatment risk. Small trials cannot rule out uncommon complications or establish long-term safety.

Follow your treating doctor’s written instructions about hygiene, exercise, sexual activity and any device use. Ask whom to contact if you have a concern. Increasing pain, spreading redness, fever or difficulty passing urine require prompt medical advice.

Why consider Elite Aesthetics for a confidential discussion?

Choosing a clinic is about the quality of the assessment and the support around a decision, as well as the procedure itself.

Elite Aesthetics is led by Dr Shirin Lakhani, whose background includes general practice and anaesthetics. Her published profile identifies her as a UK P-Shot trainer. The clinic’s service information confirms that P-Shot treatment is performed by doctors.

The Greenhithe clinic is CQC-registered and currently listed as “Good”. Registration and inspection ratings concern the service; they do not establish that PRP is effective for ED. [7]

Our clinic is at 32 Grove House, Wainwright Avenue, Greenhithe, Kent, DA9 9XN, with free parking described in our treatment information. It is a practical option for people travelling from Dartford, Gravesend, elsewhere in Kent or London. Please check your route before travelling.

You can ask questions privately before deciding whether to arrange a medical consultation. A useful consultation should leave you clearer about the evidence, alternatives and costs, even if you decide against treatment.

What else do patients ask about the P-Shot?

Is the P-Shot the same as PRP?

PRP describes the blood-derived preparation. The P-Shot is a branded penile treatment using PRP. Study protocols can differ from the preparation and schedule offered by a particular clinic.

Can the P-Shot replace Viagra?

It has not been established as a reliable replacement for prescribed ED medication. Discuss your treatment plan with your doctor and do not stop medication on the basis of a promised result.

Is the P-Shot a permanent cure?

No permanent cure can be promised. Whether it produces a meaningful benefit, how long that benefit lasts and whether repeat treatment helps remain uncertain.

Does a successful patient story prove it will work for me?

No. A story describes one person’s experience. It cannot establish the cause of improvement or predict another patient’s outcome. Ask how clinical results are assessed as well as reading testimonials.

How much does the P-Shot cost?

Elite’s published treatment page currently lists the standard P-Shot from £995. Different options have different prices. Ask for a current individual quote and confirmation of what is included before deciding.

Can I enquire without committing to treatment?

Yes. A free 15-minute chat with our patient coordinator can explain the process. Medical suitability and recommendations require a consultation with a doctor.

This article provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice.

Sources

1. EAU: Management of erectile dysfunction, PRP section. Accessed 12 October 2026.
2. Poulios et al., 2021 placebo-controlled PRP trial.
3. Masterson et al., 2023 placebo-controlled PRP trial.
4. de Amorim et al., February 2026 updated systematic review.
5. Savira et al., July 2026 meta-analysis.
6. NHS: Erectile dysfunction.
7. CQC: Elite Aesthetics.