Uroxatral
Generic Name: Alfuzosin
What is Uroxatral?
Uroxatral is used to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. If the gland becomes enlarged, it can interfere with the flow of urine. This can cause difficulty in starting urination, a weak flow of urine, and the need to urinate urgently or more frequently.What is the most important information I should know about Uroxatral?
Uroxatral can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially at the start of treatment. This may lead to dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness. This is especially important if you already have low blood pressure or are taking other medication to treat your blood pressure. Be sure to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position; if you do feel dizzy lie down with your feet up. If symptoms do not improve, contact your doctor.Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how Uroxatral will affect you.
Benign enlargement of the prostate is not the only condition that can cause male urinary discomfort. Other possibilities include infection, obstruction, and cancer of the prostate. Before prescribing Uroxatral, your doctor will want to do various tests to determine the cause of your urinary problems.
If you start to experience severe chest pain, stop taking Uroxatral and contact your doctor immediately.
Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications for erectile dysfunction. The combination can possibly cause a dangerous drop in your blood pressure.
Who should not take Uroxatral?
If you have moderate or severe liver problems, are a woman, are on antifungal drugs or HIV drugs, are under the age of 18, and if you are already taking an alpha-blocker for either blood pressure or prostate problems, you should not take Uroxatral. You should also avoid the drug if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Uroxatral?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Uroxatral. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have angina (chest pain), heart disease, electrical problems with your heart (QT prolongation), kidney or liver problems, low blood pressure, or prostate cancer.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The recommended dosage is one 10-milligram (mg) tablet once daily, taken immediately after eating, at the same meal each day.
How should I take Uroxatral?
Take Uroxatral with food, immediately after eating, at the same meal each day.Uroxatral should be swallowed whole. Do not crush, split, or chew the tablets.
What should I avoid while taking Uroxatral?
Uroxatral can cause dizziness and even fainting, especially in the first few hours after you take it. Be very careful about driving, operating machinery, or performing dangerous tasks during this period.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Uroxatral?
If Uroxatral is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Uroxatral with the following: alpha-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure or BPH), such as carvedilol, prazosin, doxazosin, and tamsulosin; atenolol; cimetidine; diltiazem; itraconazole; ketoconazole; ritonavir; or medications used for erectile dysfunction.What are the possible side effects of Uroxatral?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: dizziness, fatigue, headache, upper respiratory tract infection
Can I receive Uroxatral if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Women should not use Uroxatral.What should I do if I miss a dose of Uroxatral?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Uroxatral?
Store at room temperature and protect from heat, light, and moisture.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
