DrugindexOnline^{2nd edition}

Generic name: Alfuzosin hydrochloride
Brand names: UroXatral

Why is Alfuzosin hydrochloride prescribed?

Uroxatral is used to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate--a condition technically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. The walnut-sized prostate gland surrounds the urethra (the duct that drains the bladder). If the gland becomes enlarged, it can squeeze the urethra, interfering 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. Uroxatral doesn't shrink the prostate. Instead, it relaxes the muscle around it, freeing the flow of urine and decreasing urinary symptoms.

Most important fact about Alfuzosin hydrochloride

Uroxatral can cause dizziness and even fainting, especially in the first few hours after taking it. Be very careful about driving, operating machinery, or performing dangerous tasks during this period.

How should you take Alfuzosin hydrochloride?

Uroxatral should be taken with the same meal each day. Do not crush or chew the tablets.

--If you miss a dose...

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Protect the medicine from heat, light, and moisture.

What side effects may occur?

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 to continue using Uroxatral.

• More common side effects may include:
  Dizziness, fatigue, headache, upper respiratory tract infection

This side effects list is not complete. If you have any questions about side effects you should consult your doctor. Report any new or continuing symptoms to your doctor right away.

Why should Alfuzosin hydrochloride not be prescribed?

If you have moderate or severe liver problems, you should not use Uroxatral. You should also avoid the drug if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you might have experienced.

Special warnings about Alfuzosin hydrochloride

Benign enlargement of the prostate is not the only condition that can cause male urinary inefficiency and discomfort. Other possibilities include infection, obstruction, cancer of the prostate, and bladder disorders. Before prescribing Uroxatral, your doctor will want to do various tests to determine the cause of your urinary problems.

Stop taking Uroxatral immediately and call your doctor if symptoms of angina pectoris (chest pain due to a heart condition) start or get worse.

Be sure to tell your doctor about any history of electrical problems with your heart (QT prolongation) before you start taking Uroxatral. Also let the doctor know if you have any problems with your kidneys or liver.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Alfuzosin hydrochloride

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 (Coreg), prazosin (Minipress), doxazosin (Cardura), tamsulosin (Flomax)
Atenolol (Tenormin)
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Diltiazem (Cardizem)
Itraconazole (Sporanox)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Ritonavir (Norvir)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Uroxatral should not be used by women.

Recommended dosage

ADULT MALES

The recommended dosage is one 10-milligram tablet daily, taken immediately after the same meal each day.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Uroxatral, seek emergency treatment immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include low blood pressure.