Tamsulosin

Molecule Description

Tamsulosin belongs to a class of medications called alpha receptor blockers (or

alpha-adrenoceptor antagonists). It works by relaxing bladder neck muscles and muscle fibers in the prostate gland, making urination easier. The primary function of the prostate gland is nourishment and transport of semen during the reproductive age in men.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Tamsulosin

To treat the symptoms due to enlarged prostate gland (benign prostatic hyperplasia) - urinary retention (stagnation of urine that could not be passed out)
To reduce the risk of surgery (removal of the prostate)

Contraindications of Tamsulosin

When should one not use Tamsulosin

Do not take if you are allergic to Tamsulosin or any of its components or other alpha-blockers (e.g. Prazosin, Doxazosin, Terazosin)
Who have a history of falling in blood pressure while standing up or (orthostatic hypertension), indicated by symptoms such as dizziness, feeling light-headed or fainting
Who have severe liver disease

Side effects of Tamsulosin

Common side effects of this drug are:

Dizziness
Headache
Fall in blood pressure (orthostatic hypertension-symptoms such as dizziness, feeling light-headed or fainting)
Swelling and irritation of the nose, runny nose (rhinitis)
Constipation and diarrhea
Itching, hives & rashes
Weakness
Feeling sick (nausea)
Severe allergic reactions (rashes, blisters, and peeling of the skin, joint pains (Stevens-Johnsons syndrome) or skin swelling of face, below eyes and throat, causing breathing difficulty (angioedema)...
Read more
Patients taking Tamsulosin are prone to a complication known as floppy iris syndrome (if they undergo cataract surgery that makes the operation difficult)

Precautions and Warnings of Tamsulosin

Pregnancy

Can I take Tamsulosin during pregnancy?

Tamsulosin is not to be used by women.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Tamsulosin while breastfeeding?

Tamsulosin is not to be used by women.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Tamsulosin?

Due to the risk of side effects like dizziness and light-headedness, caution is advised while driving if the patient is on Tamsulosin, and may be avoided. Driving for short distances is permissible in the absence of such symptoms.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Tamsulosin?

Too much intake of alcohol while taking this medicine has to be avoided as both Tamsulosin and alcohol have the potential to lower blood pressure level.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You feel dizziness or light-headedness
You have kidney problems
You have swelling of the face or throat, rashes and itching
If you are planning a cataract eye procedure
This medicine is mistakenly given to children or adolescents under 18 years.

Mode of Action of Tamsulosin

How Does It Work?

The main functions of alpha receptors (receptor is a protein that transmits signals) is to cause narrowing (constriction) of blood vessels and specific muscles when stimulated Tamsulosin acts by block...

Interactions of Tamsulosin

Interactions with other medicines

Warfarin
Diclofenac (pain killer voveran)
Medicines that reduce stomach acid (Cimetidine)
Other medicines which may block alpha-receptors (Erythromycin, Ketoconazole, etc.)
Medicines causing hypotension (low blood pressure), if given along with Tamsulosin:
Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Vardenafil
Doxazosin, Prazosin, Alfuzosin

Interactions with food items

Taking Tamsulosin with food can reduce the risk or severity of side effects. Therefore, it is advised with or immediately after a meal.

Dietary Restrictions of Tamsulosin

Drink the right amount of water, if not plenty. Try to avoid coffee, cold drinks, soda and energy drinks.

Dosage of Tamsulosin

Overdose

Overdosage of Tamsulosin may lower your blood pressure and cause unwanted symptoms. If you feel any dizziness or feel like fainting, inform your doctor immediately or seek medical attention.

Missed a Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose & do not take two doses together to compensate for the missed dose.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Ravi Kakarla

MBBS, MBA

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

You cannot take this drug if you are allergic to it or other drugs of the same group 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 a personal or family history of prostate cancer

Q: Does Tamsulosin cure prostate enlargement?

A: Tamsulosin does not cause shrinkage of enlarged prostate gland or cure BPH. Tamsulosin provides symptomatic relief and prevents any complications that may be due to enlarged prostate.

Q: How long can I take Tamsulosin?

Tamsulosin needs to be taken for long periods, usually years
It is generally a safe medicine and is well tolerated in most patients
However, it is advised to take this medicine as prescribed and not to self-medicate or self-adjust the dose

References

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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