Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

TAMSULOSIN - ORAL

(tam-sull-OH-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Flomax

Uses

This medication is used to treat the symptoms of prostate enlargement (BPH), such as urinary hesitancy or urgency.

How To Use

This drug is generally taken once daily. Take the first dose at bedtime to minimize the chances of getting dizzy or fainting. After the first dose, take your regularly scheduled dose 30 minutes after the same meal each day. Or take exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not crush, chew or open the capsules. Do not increase the dose without your doctor's approval.

Side Effects

Headache, unusual weakness, back pain, drowsiness or sleeplessness could occur. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Notify your doctor promptly if any of these effects occur: ejaculation problems, dizziness. Unlikely but report promptly: vision problems. Very unlikely but report promptly any fainting episodes. Seek immediate medical attention if painful, prolonged erection occurs. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: blood pressure problems, drug allergies. To avoid dizziness or fainting, get up slowly from a lying or seated position; especially when you first start using this drug or if your doctor changes your dosing. Limit your intake of alcohol and avoid getting overheated because they may increase the dizziness and drowsiness effects of this drug. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. This drug is not recommended for use in women. This drug is not recommended for use in children.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all nonprescription or prescription medication you may use, especially: other alpha- blocker drugs (e.g., prazosin, doxazosin), blood pressure drugs (including "water pills" or diuretics), cimetidine, "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), drugs that can make you drowsy (e.g., sleep medicines, tranquilizers, sedatives, narcotic pain relievers like codeine, psychiatric medications, muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines like diphenhydramine, and anti-seizure drugs). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness and weakness.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from sunlight and moisture.