Medication Prescribed to Treat the Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Alfuzosin is a prescription medication available as an oral extended-release tablet.  It belongs to the class of drug known as alpha blockers. It is prescribed to treat the symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) or an enlarged prostate. Symptoms of BPH include:

• Difficulty urinating with a weak stream, dribbling and an incomplete bladder
• Painful urination
• Urinary urgency and frequency including in the middle of the night

Alfuzosin is an alpha-1 receptor antagonist. It works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and the opening of the bladder. This helps improve the flow of urine as it decreases the Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms. However, this medication does not slow down or stop the progression of the BPH.

How to use Alfuzosin?

Alfuzosin is a prescription drug that you can only take upon the advice of your doctor. It comes in a tablet form that you need to take by mouth. The usual recommended dose is one tablet of 10 mg a day. Take this drug after a meal. If you will take it on an empty stomach, it will not be fully absorbed in your body. Take it around the same time each day. Take it exactly as directed. If you take too much, this can lead to low blood pressure and other health-related problems. If you will stop taking this medication, your symptoms of BPH may increase. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Important Information

• Alfuzosin can only control Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). It does not cure the condition.
• This drug may cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. This can lead to fainting or dizziness within a few hours after intake. To avoid fainting, take this medication with food before bedtime.
• Do not take this medication if you are allergic to its active ingredient.
• Consult your doctor first if you have kidney, liver disease, heart problems like angina pectoris, high blood pressure, certain eye problems like cataract or glaucoma.
• Alfuzosin may affect your heart rhythm which can cause a serious irregular heartbeat that can be fatal. If this will happen, seek medical attention right away.
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages while using this drug.
• Do not take this drug if:
  • You are taking other alpha-blockers for blood pressure
  • You are taking other medications like ritonavir, ketoconazole and Itraconazole
  • You have moderate to severe liver impairment
• Alfuzosin is not recommended for use by women.