Tamsulosin Hydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Tamsulosin Hydrochloride
Other Names
- Flomax
- Flomaxtra
- Contiflo
Drug Class
- Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker
Chemical Formula
C20H28N2O5S • HCl
Molecular Weight
444.01 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Selective antagonist at alpha-1A and alpha-1B adrenoceptors in the prostate, resulting in relaxation of smooth muscle fibers in the prostate and bladder neck.
Indications
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Urinary retention in patients with BPH
Common Dosage Forms
- Capsules
- Tablets
Typical Dosage
- 0.4 mg once daily, usually 30 minutes after the same meal each day
Pediatric Dosage
Geriatric Dosage
Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Retrograde ejaculation
- Rhinitis
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to tamsulosin or sulfa drugs
- Severe liver impairment
Pregnancy Category
- Category B - no adequate studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed.
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Alpha-blockers
- CYP3A4 inhibitors
- Antihypertensives
Overdose Symptoms
- Hypotension
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Fainting
Antidote for Overdose
- Symptomatic and supportive treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Highly bound to plasma proteins
- Metabolism: Undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism via CYP3A4 enzyme
- Excretion: Primarily eliminated in the urine
Precautions
- Caution in patients with sulfa allergy
- Monitor for orthostatic hypotension
Warnings
- Avoid driving or operating machinery until effects are known