What is Alfuzosin?
Alfuzosin is a drug that requires a prescription. It comes in oral extended-release tablet form under the brand name Uroxatral. It is used to treat the signs and symptoms of benign prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH) by relaxing prostate muscles and facilitating bladder opening.
Alfuzosin Medicine Uses
- Men take alfuzosin to relieve the effects of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH).
- It functions by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder, rather than shrinking the prostate.
- This helps to alleviate BPH symptoms including trouble starting the flow of urine, a sluggish stream, and the need to urinate regularly or urgently.
- It belongs to the class of medication called alpha-blockers.
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Alfuzosin Drug Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of alfuzosin are:
The most serious side effects of alfuzosin are:
If you experience any serious side effects from Alfuzosin, consult your doctor immediately.
Precautions while Taking Alfuzosin
- Consult your doctor before taking alfuzosin if you have allergies to it or any related medications.
- The medication may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger serious allergic reactions or other complications.
- Discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have liver disease, kidney disease, heart problems, low blood pressure, or eye issues, before using alfuzosin.
- Alfuzosin has been associated with a heart rhythm disorder known as QT prolongation.
- QT prolongation may cause serious symptoms like fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, and fainting.
- Seek urgent medical attention for any signs of QT prolongation while using alfuzosin.
Dosage of Alfuzosin
Alfuzosin is available as an extended-release tablet taken orally once daily, ideally after eating. It should not be taken on an empty stomach. Consistency in timing with meals helps maintain steady drug release and reduces the risk of side effects. Only break tablets with a scoreline if advised by a healthcare professional, and always swallow them whole without crushing or chewing.
Dosage Forms and Strengths of Alfuzosin
- Generic Alfuzosin
- Form: Oral extended-release tablet (10 mg)
- Prescription Uroxatral
- Form: Oral extended-release tablet (10 mg)
- Dosage for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)
10 mg should be taken once per day.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Alfuzosin, take it as soon as you remember.skip the missed dose and return to the daily dosing schedule. To make up for a missed dose, do not take a double dose.
Overdose
Accidental overdose of medication can have harmful effects on your body's functions and may lead to a medical emergency.
Warnings for some Serious Health Conditions
- For people with liver problems: If you have liver problems, avoid taking alfuzosin as it may lead to increased drug levels in your body and higher risk of side effects.
- For people with Kidney problems: If you have severe kidney problems, use this drug cautiously as it may lead to increased drug levels in your body and higher risk of side effects.
- For people with rhythm heart problems: Use alfuzosin cautiously if you have a heart disorder called QT prolongation or are taking drugs that lengthen the QT interval, as its effect on your QT interval is uncertain.
- For people with prostate cancer: Before starting alfuzosin, your doctor will examine your prostate gland and perform a PSA test to check for prostate cancer, as symptoms of prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia can be similar.
- Pregnant Women: Alfuzosin is only used in men for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia and is not recommended for pregnant women due to lack of studies.
- Breastfeeding: This medication is only for men; women should not use it.
Storage of Alfuzosin
Keep your medication away from heat, air, and light to prevent damage and potential harmful effects. Store it in a safe place out of children's reach, ideally at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
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