Brand name:
UroXatral
Pronounced: yur-OX-ah-trall
Generic name:
Alfuzosin hydrochloride
Why is UroXatral 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 UroXatral
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 UroXatral?
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.
UroXatral side effects
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.
- 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 UroXatral 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 UroXatral
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 UroXatral
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 for UroXatral
ADULT MALES
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.
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