Uses of undefined

Tamsulosin is an alpha-adrenergic antagonist used in men to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate), which includes difficulty in urinating, painful urination, and urinary frequency and urgency. It is also used to reduce the tension in the muscles of the prostate and urethra. It belongs to the class of medications called alpha-blockers. It works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder so that urine can flow easily. 

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Tamsulosin is a prescription drug available as tablets and capsules. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of the treatment based on your disease condition, severity, and other factors. Always take tamsulosin as prescribed by your doctor. Do not open, break, crush, or chew the capsules. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Take tamsulosin capsules after breakfast or after the first daily meal. Do not stop taking this medicine without medical advice from your doctor.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Tamsulosin can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, resulting in dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. It is important to be cautious when transitioning from lying down or sitting to standing, especially during the initial period of tamsulosin use. Take your time and rise slowly to minimize the risk of falls or accidents. 

Precautions

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to tamsulosin or any of the other ingredients of this medicine, or if angioedema (swelling due to allergic reaction) occurs after using of some drugs. Inform your physician if you have a serious infection of the liver, or if you suffer from dizziness, or if you have already had malaise while you urinate or after urinating (micturition syncope).

If you are planning to undergo cataract or glaucoma surgery, please inform your doctor that you are taking or have recently taken tamsulosin capsules. Caution should be paid if you have severely impaired renal function, as there is insufficient data from clinical studies about patients with severe renal impairment. In case of dizziness, it is necessary to sit down or lay down until the disappearance of these signs. Report to your physician if there is a drop in blood pressure on long-term use.

Side Effects

The common side effects of Tamsulosin are infections, backache, dizziness, headache, insomnia, somnolence, abnormal ejaculation, cold, and runny nose. Other serious side effects are eye problems and prolonged erection. 

Word Of Advice

This medicine is not indicated for females. Take tamsulosin capsules after breakfast or after the first daily meal. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, low blood pressure, prostate cancer, or sulfa drug allergies. Tell your doctor if you plan to have cataract or glaucoma surgery. This medicine may cause difficulties with ejaculation. This medicine may cause eye problems during surgery. Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

Frequently Asked Question

• Can female patients use tamsulosin?
• Tamsulosin is primarily prescribed for men with urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate. It is not typically prescribed for women. 

• Can tamsulosin cure an enlarged prostate?
• Tamsulosin does not cure an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH). It helps to relieve symptoms associated with BPH by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and the bladder neck. Treatment with this medicine is typically long-term and aimed at managing symptoms.

• Can tamsulosin cause sexual side effects?
• Tamsulosin can potentially cause sexual side effects, although they are relatively uncommon. Some individuals may experience decreased libido (sex drive), difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction), or abnormal ejaculation. If you have any of these side effects while taking this medicine, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

• What will happen if I stop taking Tamsulosin suddenly?
• Stopping your treatment suddenly may cause your condition to become worse. Do not stop taking your medicine without consulting your doctor. 

• Can tamsulosin be used for urinary incontinence?
• Tamsulosin is primarily indicated for urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate (BPH) and may not be effective for urinary incontinence unrelated to BPH. The underlying cause of urinary incontinence must be determined, and alternative treatment options may be considered based on the specific diagnosis. Consult your doctor for more advice.

• Can tamsulosin cause dizziness or lightheadedness?
• Tamsulosin can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, especially when standing up quickly or during the initial stages of treatment. Getting up slowly from a seated or lying position is recommended to minimize these effects. If you experience persistent or severe dizziness, consult your healthcare provider.