Tamsulosin

Generic: Tamsulosin Hydrochloride

Rx only

Alpha 1 blocker✓ FDA-verified

Tamsulosin is a medication used to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is an enlargement of the prostate that can cause difficulties with urination. It works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate. You typically take it as a capsule, starting with a dose of 0.4 mg once daily, taken about half an hour after the same meal each day; if needed, this can be increased to 0.8 mg once daily after a few weeks. It's important to know that if you have a known allergy to tamsulosin or any of its ingredients, you should not take it. Additionally, you should avoid using tamsulosin with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4, like ketoconazole, as this can increase the levels of the medication in your body.

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Uses

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

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Dosage

Take 0.4 mg once daily after the same meal each day.

If no response after 2 to 4 weeks, the dose can be increased to 0.8 mg once daily.

Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules.

If treatment is stopped for several days, restart with 0.4 mg once daily.

Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.

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Side effects

Common

Common side effects include headachedizzinessand rhinitisOther common effects are abnormal ejaculationback painand diarrheaBlurred vision and decreased libido have also been reportedcontact your doctor

Serious

Serious side effects may include syncope and severe allergic reactionsIf you experience chest pain or severe dizziness

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Warnings

⚠ Important warnings

Not for treating high blood pressure.
Do not use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole.
Use caution with moderate CYP3A4 or CYP2D6 inhibitors.
Risk of orthostatic hypotension; may cause faintness or dizziness.
Not studied in severe renal or hepatic impairment.

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Drug interactions

Ketoconazoleincreases tamsulosin levels significantlyMonitor
Paroxetineincreases tamsulosin levels moderatelyMonitor
Erythromycincaution advised; effects not fully studiedCaution
PDE5 inhibitorsmay cause low blood pressureCaution
Warfarinuse with caution; interactions unclear.Caution

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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).