Why is this drug prescribed?
Flomax / Flomaxtra 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. Flomax / Flomaxtra 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 this drug
Flomax / Flomaxtra can cause dizziness, especially when you first stand up. Be careful about driving, operating machinery, and performing any other hazardous task until you know how you react to the drug.
How should you take this medication?
Take Flomax / Flomaxtra once daily, half an hour after the same meal each day. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule.
If you miss a dose
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
If you miss several doses in a row, resume treatment with a dose of 1 capsule daily and check with your doctor on how to proceed.
Storage instructions
Store at room temperature, below 25°C (77°F)
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Flomax / Flomaxtra.
More common side effects may include:
- Abnormal ejaculation
- back pain
- chest pain
- cough
- diarrhea
- dizziness
- headache
- infection
- nausea
- runny nose
- sinus problems
- sleepiness
- sore throat
- weakness
Less common side effects may include:
- decreased sex drive
- dental problems
- insomnia
- vision problems
Rare side effects may include:
- Constipation
- fainting
- low blood pressure upon standing
- painful persistent erection
- palpitations
- vertigo
- vomiting
Why should this drug not be prescribed?
If Flomax / Flomaxtra gives you an allergic reaction, you cannot take the drug.
Special warnings about this medication
Remember that, in a few men, Flomax / Flomaxtra can cause a drop in blood pressure upon first standing up, which in turn can lead to dizziness or fainting. Avoid driving and other hazardous tasks for 12 hours after your first dose or a dosage increase, and be careful to stand up slowly until you're sure the drug won't make you dizzy. If you do become dizzy, sit down until it passes.
Although the problem is extremely rare (affecting perhaps 1 in 50,000) Flomax / Flomaxtra has been known to cause priapism--a painful, persistent erection unrelated to sexual activity. If you develop this side effect, call your doctor without delay. The condition can lead to permanent impotence if not treated immediately.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication
If Flomax / Flomaxtra 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 Flomax / Flomaxtra with any of the following:
- Blood pressure drugs classified as alpha-blockers, such as Catapres
- Cimetidine (Tagamet)
- Warfarin (Coumadin)
Recommended dosage
Flomax / Flomaxtra is for use only by men.
The recommended starting dose of Flomax / Flomaxtra is 1 capsule (0.4 milligram) daily, half an hour following the same meal each day. Your doctor may increase the dose to 2 capsules (0.8 milligram) once a day if needed.
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical treatment immediately.
Symptoms of Flomax / Flomaxtra overdose may include:
- Dizziness
- fainting
- headache
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