Alfuzosin

About Alfuzosin

Alfuzosin is used to treat an enlarged prostate (benign prostate hyperplasia), a condition common in elderly men.

An enlarged prostate can put pressure on your bladder (which stores your urine) and narrow the urethra (the tube through which urine passes).

This can affect the emptying of your bladder, the frequency of urinating or starting to urinate.

How does Alfuzosin work?

The bladder and prostate gland can contract and become tense. Contraction of the bladder and prostate gland impairs the flow of urine.

Alfuzosin causes the bladder and prostate gland to relax, making it easier to urinate. It does not reduce the enlarged prostate.

What are the side-effects I may experience?

You may experience:

• Headaches

• Dizziness

  This may happen when getting out of a chair or bed.

• Dry mouth

• Abdominal pain

• Diarrhea

Are there any medications and foods I should avoid?

• You may eat normally while taking alfuzosin.

• Before starting treatment with alfuzosin, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any high blood pressure (hypertension) medications.

• Inform your doctor or pharmacist before you take erection medications such as sildenafil or tadalafil.

Useful information

• Caffeine (found in coffee, tea, and cola), alcohol, and fizzy drinks can irritate your bladder and worsen your symptoms. It is recommended to reduce consumption of these products.

• Constipation can put pressure on your bladder. You can eat foods rich in fiber (fruits, whole grains, vegetables) to prevent constipation.

• It is advisable not to drink anything two hours before you go to bed. This will reduce sleep disruptions caused by visits to the washroom.

I forgot a dose. What should I do?

If you forget to take your prescription, take it as soon as you remember.

If you miss a dose, don’t take a double dose.

If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose and take the next one.

Useful information

You may take alfuzosin for up to six weeks before you experience the maximum benefits of treatment.

Can I drive or operate machinery?

There are no restrictions on driving or operating machinery when on alfuzosin.

Be cautious when you start taking alfuzosin. You may experience dizziness.

Should I be bothered about possible addiction or dependence?

Alfuzosin isn’t addictive.

Will my sexual performance, fertility or contraceptive be impaired?

Alfuzosin hasn’t been shown to affect sexual performance or fertility. Inform your doctor if you experience painful and prolonged erections.

Can I use this medication if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Only males have a prostate gland. Alfuzosin is therefore rarely used in women.