Silodosin

Molecule Description

Silodosin is used for the treatment of problems arising due to the enlargement

of the prostate gland, a medical condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It blocks the alpha receptors present on walls of arteries and certain types of muscle (e.g. prostate) and causes them to relax. The primary function of alpha receptors is to narrow (constrict) and increase the pressure. Silodosin belongs to a group of medicines called ‘anti-adrenergic agents. Dizziness, postural hypotension (a drop in blood pressure after a change of posture), headache, loose motions, and retrograde ejaculation (backward flow of semen/orgasm with less or no semen) are some of the common side effects of Silodosin, but not everybody gets them.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Silodosin

For the treatment of enlargement of the prostate gland, a medical condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Contraindications of Silodosin

When should one not use Silodosin

This medicine should not be taken in patients with allergic reaction to Silodosin
Other alpha-receptor blockers (e.g. Prazosin, Doxazoin, Terazosin), or any of its components
It is not to be used in liver diseases, in patients having low blood pressure or those on Diuretics
Severe kidney disease

Side effects of Silodosin

Common side effects of this drug are:

Retrograde ejaculation
Dizziness
Postural hypotension
Headache
Loose motions
Nasal congestion

Precautions and Warnings of Silodosin

Pregnancy

Can I take Silodosin during pregnancy?

This medicine is for use in males only.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Silodosin while breastfeeding?

This medicine is for use in males only.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Silodosin?

Silodosin may cause dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting; hence, caution is advised while driving. Do not drive any vehicle in the first few weeks after starting the medication and later on, do not drive for long distances.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Silodosin?

Drinking alcohol with Silodosin may increase the risk of side effects so this is not recommended.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

As Silodosin works by slowing the heart rate, older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially dizziness and low blood pressure when getting up from a sitting or lyi...
Read more
Silodosin must be used with caution in elderly patients and people with liver disease
People undergoing cataract surgery should inform their doctor as Silodosin may sometime complicate the procedure

Mode of Action of Silodosin

How Does It Work?

Silodosin helps relax the muscles in the prostate and in the opening to the bladder. This may help increase the flow of urine or decrease the symptoms. This medicine is usually given only to men.

Interactions of Silodosin

Interactions with other medicines

Other alpha-receptor blockers - Terazosin, Prazosin, Alfuzosin, Tamsulosin, Doxazosin
Medicines used to treat HIV/ AIDS (Fosemprenavir, Atazanavir, Indinavir)
Antifungals (Clotrimazole)
Antibiotics (Clarithromycin, Dalfopristin/ Quinupristin, Erythromycin)
Isoniazid (and antitubercular treatment containing Isoniazid as one of the medicines)
Imanitib
Blood pressure medications (Diltiazem, Felodipine, Nicardipine, Nifedipine, Verapamil, etc.)
Medicines used to suppress the immune system/ prevent organ transplant rejection (Cyclosporine, Sirolimus, Tacrolimus)
Medicines used to treat erectile dysfunction (Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Vardenafil)
Quinidine (used to treat irregular heartbeats)
Conivaptan (used to treat low sodium levels)

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Silodosin?

You cannot take Silodosin if you are allergic to it or other medicines of the same group (alpha-receptor blockers) like Prazosin, Terazosin, Doxazosin, etc.
Inform your physician if you have severe kidney or liver disease
If you have low blood pressure and heart disease
If you are on a low salt diet
If you are taking any water pill (Diuretic)
If you have had a history of prostate cancer

Q: What is BPH or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Prostate is a gland (a secretory organ) that is present between the penis and the bladder. Its primary function is to nourish and transport the semen (male ejaculatory fluid) during the reproductive a...
Read more
As old age approaches, the prostate gland enlarges in some men due to decreased reproductive hormones and this will lead to inadequate nourishment and enlargement of the gland
The prostate can also enlarge in Prostate cancer and hence the name Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia to differentiate it from cancer
Benign means ‘not malignant (cancerous)’

Q: Why is silodosin given at night?

A: To avoid injury from dizziness or fainting, your doctor may advise you to take your first dose of silodosin with food at bedtime so that your body can adjust to its effects. The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. Take this medication on a regular basis to get the most out of it.

Q: What is the mechanism of action of silodosin?

A: Silodosin helps relax the muscles in the prostate and in the opening to the bladder. This may help increase the flow of urine or decrease the symptoms. This medicine is usually given only to men.

Q: what are the side effects of silodosin?

A: Silodosin is a medication used to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is a selective alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker that works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate gland and bladder. The most common side effects of silodosin are: Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, especially when getting up suddenly from a sitting or lying position Ejaculation problems, such as decreased semen volume or retrograde ejaculation Diarrhea Stuffy or runny nose

References

Last Updated on: 04 Oct 2023 | 11:42 AM (IST)

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