Indications
Uroxatral is a medication used to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, a condition also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It contains the active ingredient alfuzosin hydrochloride, which is an alpha-blocker that works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck to improve urine flow and reduce symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and nocturia.
Uses and Dosage
Uroxatral, in the form of a tablet, should be taken by mouth once daily after a meal as directed by a healthcare provider. To avoid undesirable complications, swallow the tablets whole and not crush or chew them, since doing so could release all the drug at once and increase the risk of side effects.
Alfuzosin may lead to sudden drops in blood pressure, which can cause dizziness or fainting, especially within a few hours after taking it, particularly if it is a new medication or if restarted after discontinuing use. To prevent such complications, take the first dose of alfuzosin with food at bedtime to acclimate the body to the medication's effects.
Take Uroxatral regularly to obtain the most benefit. To aid in remembering, take at the same hour every day after consuming the same meal.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Uroxatral (Alfuzosin Hydrochloride):
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Upper respiratory tract infection
Serious Side Effects of Uroxatral (Alfuzosin Hydrochloride):
- Constipation
- Erectile dysfunction (impotence)
- Inflamed lungs or sinuses
- Nausea
- Pain
- Sore throat
- Upset stomach
Form and Strength
Uroxatral (Alfuzosin Hydrochloride) is available in the following forms and strength:
Uroxatral: Tablet
- 10 mg
Caution
- Uroxatral should not be used in women or children.
- Uroxatral may cause orthostatic hypotension, or a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, especially during the first few hours after the dose. Patients should be advised to get up slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid this.
- Uroxatral may interact with other medications, including those used to treat erectile dysfunction, causing potentially serious side effects such as severe hypotension or priapism (a painful and prolonged erection).
- Caution should be exercised in patients with liver or kidney disease, as Uroxatral is primarily metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidney.
- Uroxatral should be used with caution in patients with a history of QT prolongation or those taking medications that can prolong the QT interval.Ttalk to your doctor about any potential risks or interactions before starting treatment with Uroxatral.
- Uroxatral may cause dizziness and lightheadedness, so patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
- Uroxatral may cause priapism, a painful erection that lasts for several hours.
- Uroxatral should be used with caution in patients who are taking medications for erectile dysfunction, as combining these medications may lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who should not take Uroxatral?
Uroxatral should not be taken by women or children. It should also be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment, liver disease, low blood pressure, heart disease, or a history of QT prolongation.
Can Uroxatral cause sexual side effects?
Uroxatral may cause sexual side effects such as decreased libido or difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. However, these side effects are considered uncommon.
How should Uroxatral be taken?
Uroxatral should be taken as directed by a healthcare provider. It is typically taken once daily with food and should be swallowed whole without crushing or chewing.
How long will it take for Uroxatral to work?
Uroxatral can start to relieve your BPH symptoms around 4 weeks after starting it. Continue to take alfuzosin (Uroxatral) even if you do not feel better right away.
Resources
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/alfuzosin
- https://www.goodrx.com/alfuzosin/what-is
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=9fc7f119-f36b-44cf-945d-940160f3afe3
- https://www.drugs.com/uroxatral.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-77238/uroxatral-oral/details
- https://www.rxlist.com/uroxatral-drug.htm#side_effects
REVIEWS