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Tamsulosin
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About tamsulosin
| Type of medicine | Alpha-blocker |
| Used for | The treatment of the symptoms of enlargement of the prostate gland in men |
| Also called | Contiflo® XL, Bazetham® MR, Diffundox® XL, Flomaxtra® XL, Omnic® MR, Stronazon® MR, Tabphyn® MR, Alphacard® MR |
| Available as | Modified release tablets and capsules |
Enlargement of the prostate gland can reduce the flow of urine from the bladder and can lead to other urinary problems. Tamsulosin works by relaxing muscles around the bladder and prostate so that urine can be passed more easily.
Before taking tamsulosin
Before taking tamsulosin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
- If you feel dizzy or faint when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
- If you have ever fainted after passing urine.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
- If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
How to take tamsulosin
- Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment.
- Swallow the tablet or capsule whole - do not crush or chew it.
- Take your dose at the same time each day.
- Try not to miss any doses. If you do forget to take a dose, leave out the missed dose and take the next dose on time. Never take two doses together.
- This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Getting the most from your treatment
- If you are having eye surgery for cataracts (cloudiness) tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking tamsulosin.
- Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside tamsulosin.
Can tamsulosin cause problems?
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness or fainting (especially when getting up from a lying or sitting position) | Getting up slowly may help. If you begin to feel dizzy, lie down so that you do not faint, then sit for a few moments before standing to prevent the dizziness returning |
| Dry mouth | Try chewing sugar-free gum, sucking sugar-free sweets or pieces of ice |
| Drowsiness | Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor |
Other side-effects include weakness, depression, sexual problems, feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, constipation, blurred vision, stuffy nose, fast or fluttering heartbeat, rash, itching, or flushing.
How to store tamsulosin
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
|
References
- British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
- Summary of Product Characteristics, Flomaxtra XL®, Astellas Pharma Ltd, electronic medicines Compendium. Text revised 10 October 2006, accessed 08 October 2007.
- Summary of Product Characteristics, Omnic MR®, Astellas Pharma Ltd, electronic medicines Compendium. Text revised 10 October 2006, accessed 08 October 2007.
- Summary of Product Characteristics, Stronazon MR®, Alpharma Ltd, electronic medicines Compendium. Text revised August 2006, accessed 08 October 2007.
- Summary of Product Characteristics, Contiflo XL®, Ranbaxy (UK) Ltd, electronic medicines Compendium. Text revised 11 January 2007, accessed 08 October 2007.
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