Flomax (Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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May 21, 2012

Flomax

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia »

What is the prostate gland?

The prostate is a small organ about the size of a walnut. It lies below the bladder (where urine is stored) and surrounds the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder). The prostate makes a fluid that helps to nourish sperm as part of the semen (ejaculatory fluid).

Prostate problems are common in men 50 and older. Most can be treated successfully without harming sexual function. A urologist is a specialist in diseases of the urinary system, including diagnosing and treating problems of the prostate gland.

How does the doctor detect prostate enlargement?

A doctor usually can detect an enlarged prostate by rectal exam. The doctor also may examine the urethra, prostate, and bladder using a cytoscope, an instrument that is inserted through the penis.

What is benign prostatic hyperplasia?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is nonmalignant...

Read the Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia article »

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Flomax

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Flomax®
(tamsulosin hydrochloride)

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Tamsulosin hydrochloride is an antagonist of alpha1A adrenoceptors in the prostate.

Tamsulosin hydrochloride is (-)-(R)-5-[2-[[2-(o-Ethoxyphenoxy) ethyl]amino]propyl]-2-methoxybenzenesulfonamide, monohydrochloride. Tamsulosin hydrochloride is a white crystalline powder that melts with decomposition at approximately 230°C. It is sparingly soluble in water and methanol, slightly soluble in glacial acetic acid and ethanol, and practically insoluble in ether.

The empirical formula of tamsulosin hydrochloride is C₂₀H₂₈N₂O₅S• HCl. The molecular weight of tamsulosin hydrochloride is 444.98. Its structural formula is:

Flomax® (tamsulosin hydrochloride) Structural Formula Illustration

Each FLOMAX capsule for oral administration contains tamsulosin hydrochloride 0.4 mg, and the following inactive ingredients: methacrylic acid copolymer dispersion, NF; microcrystalline cellulose, NF; triacetin, USP; calcium stearate, NF; talc, USP; FD&C blue No. 2; titanium dioxide; ferric oxide; gelatin, and trace amounts of black edible ink.

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

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

Stop using tamsulosin and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

penis erection that is painful or lasts 4 hours or longer;
severe dizziness; or
fainting.

Less serious side effects may include:

mild dizziness or drowsiness;
sleep problems (insomnia);
abnormal...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Flomax »

What are the precautions when taking tamsulosin hydrochloride (Flomax)?

Before taking tamsulosin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.

To reduce the risk of dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position, especially when you first start taking this drug or if your doctor changes your dose. If dizziness occurs,...

Read All Potential Precautions of Flomax »

Last reviewed on RxList: 8/8/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.