Alfuzosin: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Precautions

Alfuzosin is a drug that requires a prescription. It comes in oral extended-release tablet form under the brand name Uroxatral. It is used to treat the signs and symptoms of benign prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH) by relaxing prostate muscles and facilitating bladder opening.

What are the Uses of Alfuzosin Tablet?

• Men take alfuzosin to relieve the effects of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH).
• It functions by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder, rather than shrinking the prostate.
• This helps to alleviate BPH symptoms including trouble starting the flow of urine, a sluggish stream, and the need to urinate regularly or urgently.
• It belongs to the class of medication called alpha-blockers.

How Does Alfuzosin Tablet Work?

Alfuzosin works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the prostate gland and bladder neck. It belongs to a class of drugs called alpha-1 blockers.

In people with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), the enlarged prostate can press against the urethra and make urination difficult. Alfuzosin blocks alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in this area, which reduces muscle tension and allows urine to flow more easily.

Key Mechanism Points

• No direct hormone interaction: It does not shrink the prostate or change hormone levels (unlike some other BPH medications).
• Acts on the nervous system: Specifically targets alpha-1 receptors in the sympathetic nervous system.
• Improves urinary flow and reduces symptoms like urgency, frequency, and weak stream.

Dosage of Alfuzosin

Alfuzosin is available as an extended-release tablet taken orally once daily, ideally after eating. It should not be taken on an empty stomach. Consistency in timing with meals helps maintain steady drug release and reduces the risk of side effects. Only break tablets with a scoreline if advised by a healthcare professional, and always swallow them whole without crushing or chewing.

Dosage Forms and Strengths of Alfuzosin

• Generic Alfuzosin
• Form: Oral extended-release tablet (10 mg)
• Prescription Uroxatral
• Form: Oral extended-release tablet (10 mg)
• Dosage for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

10 mg should be taken once per day.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose of Alfuzosin, take it as soon as you remember. skip the missed dose and return to the daily dosing schedule. To make up for a missed dose, do not take a double dose.

What happens if an Overdose?

Accidental overdose of medication can have harmful effects on your body's functions and may lead to a medical emergency.

What are the Side Effects of Alfuzosin Drug?

Common Side Effects of Alfuzosin are

• Tiredness
• Headache
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Pain
• Stomach pain
• Heartburn
• Constipation
• Nausea

Serious Side Effects of Alfuzosin are

• Rash
• Swelling of the face
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chest pain
• Fainting

If you experience any serious side effects from Alfuzosin, consult your doctor immediately.

Precautions while Taking Alfuzosin

• Consult your doctor before taking alfuzosin if you have allergies to it or any related medications.
• The medication may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger serious allergic reactions or other complications.
• Discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have liver disease, kidney disease, heart problems, low blood pressure, or eye issues, before using alfuzosin.
• Alfuzosin has been associated with a heart rhythm disorder known as QT prolongation.
• QT prolongation may cause serious symptoms like fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, and fainting.
• Seek urgent medical attention for any signs of QT prolongation while using alfuzosin.

Warnings for some Serious Health Conditions

• For people with liver problems: If you have liver problems, avoid taking alfuzosin as it may lead to increased drug levels in your body and higher risk of side effects.
• For people with Kidney problems: If you have severe kidney problems, use this drug cautiously as it may lead to increased drug levels in your body and higher risk of side effects.
• For people with rhythm heart problems: Use alfuzosin cautiously if you have a heart disorder called QT prolongation or are taking drugs that lengthen the QT interval, as its effect on your QT interval is uncertain.
• For people with prostate cancer: Before starting alfuzosin, your doctor will examine your prostate gland and perform a PSA test to check for prostate cancer, as symptoms of prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia can be similar.
• Pregnant Women: Alfuzosin is only used in men for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia and is not recommended for pregnant women due to lack of studies.
• Breastfeeding: This medication is only for men; women should not use it.

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

Alfuzosin can interact with several medications, affecting how it works or increasing the risk of side effects.

Key Drug Interactions

• Other alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin): May increase the risk of low blood pressure or dizziness.
• Blood pressure medications: Can enhance the hypotensive effect, causing fainting or weakness.
• Antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole): May increase Alfuzosin levels in the body, raising side effects risk.
• HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir): These can also increase blood levels of alfuzosin.
• Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin): May interfere with Alfuzosin s metabolism.

Interactions with Supplements and Herbal Products

• Herbal supplements for prostate health (like saw palmetto): May enhance the effects, leading to a greater risk of side effects like dizziness or low blood pressure.
• Potassium or magnesium supplements (if combined with diuretics): May increase the risk of abnormal heart rhythms when used with Alfuzosin in sensitive individuals.

How Should Alfuzosin Be Stored?

Keep your medication away from heat, air, and light to prevent damage and potential harmful effects. Store it in a safe place out of children's reach, ideally at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).

• Recommended Storage Temperature: Store Alfuzosin at room temperature, ideally between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Short-term storage between 15°C and 30°C is usually acceptable.
• Keep in Original Packaging: Store in its original packaging to protect from moisture and light.
• Protect from:
• Direct sunlight
• Excess moisture (e.g., avoid bathroom storage)
• Heat and freezing conditions
• Keep out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Alfuzosin vs Silodosin

References

Alfuzosin
CLINICAL PRACTICEAlfuzosin for treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy