What is Flomax used for?
TAMSULOSIN is used for the treatment of the enlargement of the male prostate gland, a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. It is not to be used by women. It works by relaxing muscles in the prostate and bladder neck. This improves urine flow and reduces BPH symptoms.
What should I discuss with my physician prior to taking Flomax?
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:
- advanced kidney disease
- advanced liver disease
- low blood pressure
- prostate cancer
- an unusual or allergic reaction to the tamsulosin, sulfa drugs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How is Flomax should be taken?
Take this medicine orally about 30 minutes after the same meal every day. Swallow the whole capsules with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules. You should never take this medicine more often than prescribed. You should never stop taking your medicine unless your doctor specifically advises you to.
Contact your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine by children. Special care might be necessary.
Overdosage: If you suspect an overdosage, get in touch with the nearest poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTE: This medicine is only intended for your use. You should never share it with the others.
What to do if I missed a dose of Flomax?
If you missed a dose, it should be taken as soon as possible. If the time has almost come for the next dose, only that one should be taken. You should never take double or extra doses; a single doze is sufficient for the purposes. If you stop taking your medicine for several days or more, ask your doctor or health care professional what dose you should start with.
What are the possible interactions of Flomax with the other medicine/food/etc?
- cimetidine
- fluoxetine
- ketoconazole
- medicines for erectile disfunction like sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil
- medicines for the high blood pressure
- other alpha-blockers like alfuzosin, doxazosin, phentolamine, phenoxybenzamine, prazosin, terazosin
- warfarin
This list is not all-inclusive. Provide your health care provider with a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them whether you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some of those items may also interact with your medicine.
Is there anything I should pay attention to while taking Flomax?
Pay regular visits to your doctor or health care professional to undergo the necessary check-ups. It will be necessary for you to have a lab work done prior to starting this medicine and regularly during the treatment course. Also check your blood pressure as directed by your physician. Inquire with your health care professional what your blood pressure should be, and under what circumstances you should contact them to let them know whether there are any changes to it.
It is possible that this medicine will make you feel dizzy or lightheaded. This is more likely to occur following the first dose, after a dosage increase, or during the hot weather or exercise. Drinking alcohol and taking some medicines can make this even worse. You shouldn’t drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how exactly this medicine affects you. Do not sit or stand up quickly. If you begin to feel dizzy, sit down until you feel better. These effects will wear out or decrease significantly once your body adjusts to the medicine.
Although the following symptom is extremely rare among men taking this medicine, let you doctor know immediately if you have a prolonged and painful penis erection which is unrelated to sexual activity. If you did not get medical attention then this condition can lead to permanent erectile dysfunction.
If you thinking of having a cataract surgery, inform your eye surgeon if you are taking (or have been taking) this medicine.
Does Flomax have any possible side effects?
The following side effects should be reported to your doctor or health care professional as soon as they are noticed:
- allergic reactions like skin rash or itching, hives, swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- issues with breathing
- change in vision
- feeling faint or lightheaded
- irregular heartbeat
- weakness
The side effects listed below usually do not necessarily require any medical attention (please do report them to your physician if they are recurrent or bothersome):
- back pain
- change in sex drive or performance
- constipation, nausea or vomiting
- cough
- drowsy
- runny or stuffy nose
- trouble sleeping
Other side effects are also possible, the above list is not all inclusive.
Where should I keep Flomax?
Keep this medicine out of the children’s reach.
This medicine should be stored at the room temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Dispose of any unused medicine after the expiry date is reached.