Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: ALFUZOSIN EXTENDED-RELEASE - ORAL (al-FOO-zoe-sin)
BRAND NAME(S): Uroxatral
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Alfuzosin is used to treat a condition of the prostate gland called BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or "enlarged prostate". It blocks the chemicals in the body that affect the prostate gland. BPH can block the flow of urine out of the bladder and may cause painful and/or difficult urination.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once daily after a meal; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not crush or chew this medication; swallow this medication whole. To avoid injuries such as a fall, take your first dose(s) of alfuzosin at bedtime until your body adjusts to the effect of the medicine. Also, any time the dosage of this drug is changed, take your first new dose at bedtime.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness/lightheadedness or headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Promptly tell your doctor if decreased sexual ability occurs. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: unusual fatigue/weakness, joint pain, trouble breathing, stomach/abdominal pain, back pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: unusually fast heartbeat, chest pain. Males - though it is unlikely to occur, if you get a painful, prolonged erection, stop using this drug and seek immediate medical attention. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems, cancer or other prostate gland problems, heart problems, kidney disease, any allergies. This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication is not recommended for use in children. This medication is not recommended for use in women. If it is used in women for any unapproved indications, it should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- doxazosin mesylate, Cardura - Information about the drug doxazosin mesylate (Cardura), a medication prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension), and enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH).
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia - Get the facts on benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms and prevention of an enlarged prostate gland. BPH treatment may involve medication or surgery. BPH is not cancer.
- terazosin, Hytrin -
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