What is Tamsulosin?
Tamsulosin is a prescribed drug. It is an oral capsule that is taken by inhalation.
Tamsulosin oral capsules are available as a brand-name drug, Flomax, and as a generic drug. Generic drugs typically cost less than brand-name versions. In certain instances, they might not be available in all strengths or in the same form as the name-brand drug.
The drug can be used in conjunction with therapy. This means that you might need to take it along with other medications.
The reason it's being used
Tamsulosin can be used to treat signs of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a condition that is common in males. When you suffer from BPH, it is a condition where the prostate becomes expanded, but it isn't cancerous.
The symptoms of BPH include difficulty urinating and a constant urgency to urinate, which usually occurs during the evening.
How does it work
Tamsulosin is part of a class of drugs known as alpha-adrenergic blockers. The term “class” refers to a collection of drugs that function similarly. They are typically utilized to treat similar issues.
Tamsulosin helps relax the bladder muscles and prostate. This improves the flow of urine.
Tamsulosin side effects
Tamsulosin oral capsules don't cause drowsiness, however it could cause other negative side effects.
More common side effects
The most frequent adverse effects that can be experienced with tamsulosin are:
- headache
- dizziness
- runny nose
- diarrhea
- cough
- Semen slowed down
- weakness or loss of strength
- Sore throat or difficulty swallowing
- Back or chest discomfort in the chest or back
- tiredness
- nausea
The symptoms could disappear in a couple of days or weeks if the symptoms are mild. Discuss the issue with your doctor or pharmacist if they're more severe or persist.
Serious side effects
Get your doctor's attention immediately when you experience serious negative side consequences. Call 911 or the local emergency service if you feel your symptoms seem to be life-threatening or if you believe you're suffering from an emergency medical situation. Severe side effects and symptoms could include:
- abnormal ejaculation
- priapism (painful, long-lasting erection)
- Influenza-like symptoms
- blurred vision
- lower blood pressure, which makes you feel faint, lightheaded, or dizzy while shifting positions
- an allergic reaction that causes difficulties breathing or swelling in your throat, tongue itching of your tongue, rash, or an allergic reaction that causes hives
Disclaimer: We intend to give you the most current and relevant information. However, since medications affect people differently, we cannot ensure that the information we provide is complete and covers all potential side effects. The information provided isn't intended to substitute for professional medical advice. Discuss possible adverse effects with a health doctor who understands your medical background.
Tamsulosin could be incompatible with other medications.
Tamsulosin oral capsules can interact with other drugs, vitamins, and herbs you are taking. An interaction occurs when a substance alters how a drug performs. It can be dangerous or hinder the drug from functioning properly.
To prevent interactions, your doctor must be able to handle all your medications in a controlled manner. Be sure to inform your doctor about supplements, vitamins, and supplements. To determine if this medication could interfere with your other medications, speak to your physician or pharmacist.
Some examples of drugs that could result in interactions with Tamsulosin are listed below.
The drug that blocks acid
Cimetidine taken with tamsulosin may raise the level of tamsulosin within your body. This can increase the chances of developing side effects from Tamsulosin. Both drugs should be taken in conjunction with caution.
Antibiotic
If you take erythromycin along with tamsulosin, the level of tamsulosin within your body will increase. This could increase your chances of having side effects caused by Tamsulosin. The two drugs must be used together with care.
Antidepressant (SSRI)
Paroxetine and tamsulosin can raise the amount of tamsulosin your body produces. This increases the risk of adverse effects resulting from Tamsulosin. The two drugs must be used together with care.
Antifungal drugs
Injecting certain antifungals containing Tamsulosin may increase the level of tamsulosin in your body. This can increase the chance of experiencing side effects due to Tamsulosin. Examples of these include:
- Terbinafine (these medications should be taken with caution)
- ketoconazole (do not take this medication in conjunction with Tamsulosin)
Erectile dysfunction (ED) drugs
The use of ED drugs that contain tamsulosin could result in significantly lower blood pressure. Some examples of these drugs are:
- sildenafil
- Tadalafil
- vardenafil
Other medications for benign prostatic hyperplasia
The combination of alfuzosin and Tamsulosin may cause a rise in blood pressure, which is an adverse effect of Tamsulosin. Some of the symptoms include dizziness, falling, and fainting.
Alpha-blockers
Utilizing drugs known as alpha blockers that contain tamsulosin may cause extremely high blood pressure. Some examples of alpha-blockers are:
- doxazosin
- prazosin
Disclaimer: We intend to give you the most current and relevant information. Since medications interact differently with every person, we can't assure you that this information is accurate and includes every interaction that might occur. This information is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult your physician about the possibility of interactions with any prescription drug or vitamins, herbal products, supplements, as well as any over-the-counter drugs that you're taking.
How do I take Tamsulosin?
This dosage information applies to the oral capsule tamsulosin. The various dosages and forms are not included in this article. Your doctor will advise you which dosage is suitable for you. The dosage, the form, and the frequency at which you use the medication will be determined by:
- Your age
- the disease being treated
- how severe is your illness
- Other medical conditions that you may have
- how you feel about the first dose
Dosage for benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH)
Generic: Tamsulosin
- Form: oral capsule
- Strength: 0.4 mg
Brand: Flomax
- Form: oral capsule
- Strength: 0.4 mg
Adult dose (ages 18-64 years old)
Typical dosage: 0.4 mg capsule daily.
Dosage increases: If your body isn't responding to the 0.4-mg dose within about two or four weeks, your dose could be increased to 0.8 mg every day.
Dosage for seniors (ages 65 and over)
Your body may be able to process this drug slower. The doctor could begin a lower dosage to ensure that the drug doesn't accumulate too much within your body. The presence of high levels of the drug in your body can pose a health risk.
Disclaimer: We aim to give you the most current and accurate information. Since medications affect people in different ways, it is impossible to guarantee that this list contains all possible dosages. This list does not replace medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist to determine the appropriate dosages for you.
Follow the directions as they are given.
Tamsulosin oral capsules are used to treat long-term conditions. However, there are risks involved when you do not take them according to the directions.
When you quit taking this medication abruptly or stop taking it at all, your BPH symptoms will not improve. If you cease taking this medication for several days, speak with your physician before beginning again.
If you don't take your doses on time or do not take your medication according to the schedule, your medication may not perform as well or may cease to work completely. To make this drug work efficiently, a certain amount must be present in your body at all times.
If you are taking excessive amounts, taking too large quantities of this drug could result in a drop in blood pressure. This could be risky.
If you suspect you've taken excessive amounts of the medication, consult your physician or ask for advice from the American Association of Poison Control Centers by calling 1-800-222-1222 or using their website tool. However, if the symptoms you're experiencing are serious, dial 911 or visit the nearest emergency department immediately.
What should you do if you miss a dose? Take your dose whenever you remember. If you only remember it several hours before the next dose is scheduled, it is best to take just one dose. Do not attempt to catch up with two doses at the same time. This could lead to dangerous adverse consequences.
What can you know if the drug will work: you will observe a decrease in signs of BPH. You might have to urinate less frequently or feel less pressure to urinate or an increased flow of urine.
Tamsulosin cost
As with all medications, the cost of tamsulosin may be different.
The most important considerations to take when taking tamsulosin
Take note of these tips when your doctor prescribes Tamsulosin for you.
General
- It is recommended to take this medication 30 minutes after eating and at the same time every day.
- Do not crush or cut the capsule.
Storage
- The drug should be stored between 59°F and 86°F (15 °C and 30 °C).
- Do not freeze this medication.
- Make sure this drug is kept away from direct light.
- Do not store this medication in humid or humid places such as bathrooms.
Refills
The prescription for this medication can be refilled. You do not require an additional prescription to refill. The doctor will provide the number of refills authorized on the prescription.
Travel
When you travel with your medication:
- Always keep your medicine on your person. If you travel, don't place it in the checked bag. Place the bag in your luggage.
- Do not worry about airport Xray machines. They won't cause harm to your medication.
- You might have to show the airport personnel the pharmacy label on your prescription. Always bring the original prescription labeled container.
- Please do not put the medication in your vehicle's glove compartment or leave it in your car. Avoid doing this if the weather is extremely hot or cold.
Clinical monitoring
BPH may be associated in conjunction with other serious illnesses like prostate cancer. Before you begin treatment with tamsulosin, discuss with your doctor about having a prostate screening for cancer.
Your regular checkups will be with your physician. At these checkups, the doctor will determine whether the signs of BPH have changed.
Do you have other options?
Various other medicines can treat your condition. Certain medications may be better for you than others. Consult your physician about alternatives that might suit you.
Important cautions
- Low blood pressure caution: Tamsulosin could make you feel faint or cause drops in blood pressure if you stand up after lying down. When you've taken the first dose or an increase in dose, make sure to be aware of how Tamsulosin can affect you prior to engaging in any activity that could result in injuries.
- A priapism alert: Sometimes, tamsulosin is a cause of the sensation of priapism. This is a continuous painful, painful erection that is not associated with sexual activities. If you're experiencing priapism, seek medical attention immediately. If you don't treat it the condition could result in permanently infertile (not getting a chance to get sexual intimacy).
- Skin reactions to be aware of: Though extremely rare, this drug could trigger severe skin reactions which can lead to a serious condition known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. The skin reactions could cause the appearance of raised welts, facial swelling or fever, as well as trouble breathing. Contact a physician right away or dial 911 if you are experiencing a sudden or severe reaction to your skin after taking this medication.
- Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) caution: IFIS is a complication that can arise in cataract surgeries or glaucoma surgeries. Although it's not very common, this condition has been observed in people who are taking Tamsulosin. If you're going to have surgery to treat glaucoma or cataracts, ensure that you inform your surgeon or doctor that you're taking Tamsulosin.
Tamsulosin-related warnings
This medication comes with several warnings.
Allergy alert
Tamsulosin can trigger extreme allergic reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a severe illness syndrome. These reactions can result in symptoms such as:
- Trouble breathing
- the swelling of your throat or tongue
- Itching, hives, rash
If you experience any allergic reactions, contact your doctor or the local poison control center as soon as you notice them. If the symptoms are severe, contact 911 or visit your nearest hospital emergency rooms.
Do not take this medication for the second time if you've experienced an allergic reaction or sulfa. Repeating the use of this drug could cause fatality (cause the death of). Sulfa is a component present in some medicines. Consult your physician when you've experienced a severe and life-threatening reaction to the ingredient sulfa.