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Tamsulosin

Generic Name: 

Tamsulosin HCl

Brand Names: 

Flomax

Tamsulosin Description: 

Tamsulosin belongs to a group of medications known as alpha adrenoceptor antagonists and is prescribed for the treatment of men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BHP), or an enlarged prostate. Tamsulosin works by relaxing muscles in the prostate, allowing the free flow of urine to improve urination in men with BHP.

Tamsulosin Side Effects: 

Some of the most common side effects experienced by patients taking tamsulosin include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Abnormal ejaculation
  • Back pain
  • Diarrhea

For more information, see our tamsulosin side effects page.

Tamsulosin Uses: 

Men with an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BHP), may take tamsulosin to ease urinary symptoms associated with the condition. Men with BHP often experience changes or problems with urination and tamsulosin relaxes prostate muscles to improve these symptoms.

Tamsulosin is the most commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of BHP and works by relieving pressure on the urethra, allowing urine to flow more easily.

Tamsulosin Interactions: 

Patients taking tamsulosin should not use the medication in combination with ketoconazole, an antifungal drug used in the treatment of skin and fungal conditions.

Speak with your doctor about the use of tamsulosin with the following medications, as caution should be taken when using tamsulosin in combination with the following drugs:

  • Erythromycin
  • Paroxetine
  • Terbinafine
  • PDE5 inhibitors
  • Tamsulosin

Patients with a history or current diagnosis with the following conditions should consult their doctor before beginning treatment with tamuslosin:

  • Cataract surgery
  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Postural hypotension
  • Priapism (prolonged erections)
  • Prostate cancer
  • Allergies to sufa antibiotics
Tamsulosin Dosage Information: 

Typical Dosage Recommendations

Follow the dosing instructions provided by your doctor when taking tamsulosin.

Tamsulosin is typically prescribed in 0.4 mg doses, taken within 30 minutes of the same meal daily. The dosage may be increased to 0.8 mg once daily for patients who do not respond to the smaller dose following two to four weeks on the previous dose.

If tamsulosin treatment is discontinued, treatment should begin at the smaller dosage level one time daily.

Missing a Dose of Tamsulosin

If a dose of tamsulosin is missed, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose of the medication, skip the missed dose and take the next dose to resume your normal dosing schedule.

Do not take a double dose of tamsulosin.

Tamsulosin Overdose

If an overdose on tamsulosin occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Patients who experience an overdose on tamsulosin may demonstrate symptoms including:

  • Rapid heart beat
  • Severe headache
  • Loss of consciousness
Tamsulosin FDA Approval: 

April 15, 1997

Tamsulosin Recall/Black Box Warning Information: 

Other Warnings:

Men are strongly cautioned against the use of tamsulosin within two weeks of cataracts surgery, as studies have indicated severe complications when taking the medication. Speak with your doctor before undergoing surgery when taking tamsulosin.

Sources: 
  1. http://bidocs.boehringer-ingelheim.com/BIWebAccess/ViewServlet.ser?docBase=renetnt&folderPath=/Prescribing+Information/PIs/Flomax+Caps/Flomax.pdf
  2. http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/prostateenlargement/
  3. http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/EnforcementActivitiesbyFDA/WarningLettersandNoticeofViolationLetterstoPharmaceuticalCompanies/UCM168222.pdf
  4. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR601843/DSECTION=before-using
  5. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a698012.html
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