Flomax

Flomax

     * Generic Name: tamsulosin hydrochloride
     * Brand Name: Flomax


     * What is tamsulosin (Flomax)?
     * What are the possible side effects of tamsulosin (Flomax)?
     * What is the most important information I should know about
       tamsulosin (Flomax)?
     * What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking
       tamsulosin (Flomax)?
     * How should I take tamsulosin (Flomax)?
     * What happens if I miss a dose (Flomax)?
     * What happens if I overdose (Flomax)?
     * What should I avoid while taking tamsulosin (Flomax)?
     * What other drugs will affect tamsulosin (Flomax)?
     * Where can I get more information (Flomax)?

What is tamsulosin (Flomax)?

   Tamsulosin is an alpha-blocker that relaxes the muscles in the
   prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate.

   Tamsulosin is used to improve urination in men with benign
   prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate).

   Tamsulosin is not approved for use in women or children.

   Tamsulosin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication
   guide.

What are the possible side effects of tamsulosin (Flomax)?

   Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:
   hives, rash, itching; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face,
   lips, tongue, or throat.

   Stop using tamsulosin and call your doctor at once if you have:
     * a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
     * penis erection that is painful or lasts 4 hours or longer; or
     * severe skin reaction--fever, sore throat, swelling in your face
       or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or
       purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper
       body) and causes blistering and peeling.

   Common side effects may include:
     * dizziness, drowsiness, weakness;
     * nausea, diarrhea;
     * headache, chest pain;
     * abnormal ejaculation, decreased amount of semen;
     * back pain;
     * blurred vision;
     * tooth problems;
     * fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
     * runny or stuffy nose, sinus pain, sore throat, cough;
     * sleep problems (insomnia); or
     * decreased interest in sex.

   This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell
   your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report
   side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about tamsulosin
(Flomax)?

   Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of
   your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies,
   and all medicines you use.

   Flomax Patient Information including How Should I Take
   Enlarged Prostate (BPH): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

   Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Pictures Slideshow
   Prostate Cancer Symptoms, Tests, Treatments

   Prostate Cancer Slideshow Pictures
   RxList

   Take the Enlarged Prostate Quiz!

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking tamsulosin
(Flomax)?

   You should not use tamsulosin if you are allergic to it. Do not take
   tamsulosin together with similar medicines such as alfuzosin
   (Uroxatral), doxazosin (Cardura), prazosin
   (Minipress), silodosin (Rapaflo), or terazosin (Hytrin).

   To make sure tamsulosin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
     * liver or kidney disease;
     * a history of prostate cancer;
     * low blood pressure; or
     * an allergy to sulfa drugs.

   Tamsulosin can affect your pupils during cataract surgery. Tell
   your eye surgeon ahead of time that you are using this medicine. Do
   not stop using tamsulosin before surgery unless your surgeon tells you
   to.

   Although this medicine is not for use in women, tamsulosin is not
   expected to harm an unborn baby. If you are a woman using this
   medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

   Tamsulosin is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take tamsulosin (Flomax)?

   Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may
   occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do
   not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than
   recommended.

   Tamsulosin is usually taken once a day, approximately 30 minutes after
   a meal. Try to take this medication at the same time each day.

   Do not crush, chew, or open a tamsulosin capsule. Swallow it whole.

   Tamsulosin lowers blood pressure and may cause dizziness or
   fainting, especially when you first start taking it, or when you
   start taking it again. Call your doctor if you have severe dizziness or
   feel like you might pass out.

   Some things can cause your blood pressure to get too low. This includes
   vomiting, diarrhea, heavy sweating, heart disease,
   dialysis, a low-salt diet, or taking diuretics (water
   pills). Tell your doctor if you have a prolonged illness that causes
   diarrhea or vomiting.

   Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. You will also need
   to be checked for prostate cancer before and during treatment with
   tamsulosin.

   You may feel very dizzy when you first wake up. Be careful when
   standing or sitting up from a lying position.

   If you stop taking tamsulosin for any reason, call your doctor before
   you start taking it again. You may need a dose adjustment.

   Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

   Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets
   provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any
   questions.

   Flomax Patient Information including If I Miss a Dose
   Enlarged Prostate (BPH): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

   Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Pictures Slideshow
   Prostate Cancer Symptoms, Tests, Treatments

   Prostate Cancer Slideshow Pictures
   RxList

   Take the Enlarged Prostate Quiz!

What happens if I miss a dose (Flomax)?

   Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if
   it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra
   medicine to make up the missed dose.

   If you miss your doses for several days in a row, contact your doctor
   before restarting the medication.

What happens if I overdose (Flomax)?

   Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at
   1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking tamsulosin (Flomax)?

   Tamsulosin may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you
   drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Avoid getting up
   too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get
   up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.

   Dizziness or severe drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe
   injuries.

   To prevent dizziness, avoid standing for long periods of time or
   becoming overheated during exercise and in hot weather.

   Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of tamsulosin.

What other drugs will affect tamsulosin (Flomax)?

   Tell your doctor about all medicines you use, and those you start or
   stop using during your treatment with tamsulosin, especially:
     * blood pressure medicine.

   This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with tamsulosin,
   including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and
   herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this
   medication guide.

Where can I get more information (Flomax)?

   Your pharmacist can provide more information about tamsulosin.
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