What is Flomax: Uses, Warnings & Interactions
Flomax is a brand-name prescription drug that relieves urination problems in men with an enlarged prostate. Tamsulosin, the active ingredient in Flomax, is an alpha blocker that relaxes the smooth muscle cells in the prostate and bladder neck, improving the flow of urine. To use Flomax, men take one capsule per day one-half hour after the same meal each day.
Flomax overview
BRAND NAMES:
Flomax
Generic Names:
Tamsulosin HCl
Uses:
Treats the urinary symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)
Therapeutic Classes:
Alpha blocker
Forms:
Capsule
How it’s taken:
By mouth
What is Flomax used for?
Flomax relieves urinary symptoms in men due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate).
What form(s) does Flomax come in
Capsule
0.4 mg
What are common Flomax doses?
For the urinary symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate): 0.4–0.8 mg taken once per day at the same meal each day
Common Flomax prescriptions
Flomax
100 capsules bottleFlomax
30 capsules bottleFlomax
90 capsules bottleFlomax
0.4mg capsule
How to take Flomax
Take Flomax as instructed by the prescriber.
Please read the Patient Information that comes with this medicine.
Take only one dose daily 30 minutes after the same meal each day.
Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, chew, or open it.
Store Flomax capsules at room temperature in a closed container.
What to do if you miss a dose of Flomax
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible.
If you miss an entire day’s dose, then skip the dose. Take the next dose as scheduled.
If you miss several doses in a row, call the prescriber for advice.
Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Flomax contraindications
This medicine is not right for everyone.
Do not use it if you have had an allergic reaction to tamsulosin.
Flomax warnings
Tell any doctor or other healthcare professional who treats you that you are taking tamsulosin.
Tell the prescriber about any medical conditions you may have, particularly:
Kidney problems
Liver problems
A history of high blood pressure
Sulfa drug allergies
Tell your doctor if you plan to have cataract or glaucoma surgery. Tell any eye doctor treating you that you’re using tamsulosin. This medicine may cause problems during eye surgery.
Tamsulosin can make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint when changing position. Stand or sit up slowly if you feel dizzy. Avoid driving or other risky activities until you know how the medicine affects you.
Tamsulosin can cause persistent, painful erections. Get immediate medical care if this should happen.
The prescribing healthcare professional will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
Flomax interactions
To avoid potential drug interactions, tell the prescribing healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements you use, particularly:
Other alpha blockers
Erectile dysfunction medications
HIV/AIDS drugs called protease inhibitors
Cimetidine, itraconazole, ketoconazole, warfarin
Tell other healthcare providers about daily tamsulosin treatment before they prescribe new medications.
Flomax side effects
Serious side effects
Talk to a healthcare provider if you notice any signs or symptoms of a possible serious side effect, including:
Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
Painful erection or an erection that lasts longer than four hours
Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, skin rash, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Less serious side effects
Headache
Ejaculation problems
Runny or stuffy nose
Dizziness
Infection
Sources:
Flomax drug summary, Prescriber’s Digital Reference (PDR)
Flomax tamsulosin hydrochloride capsule prescribing information, DailyMed (NIH National Library of Medicine)
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