Silodosin: Uses, Side Effects, Storage and Precautions
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr K G Jyothi Swaroop, Urology
Silodosin is a prescription medication used to treat urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It helps improve urine flow and reduces the need to urinate frequently or urgently.
Silodosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist. It works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate. It is sold under the brand name Rapaflo and is available in oral capsule form.
Silodosin is primarily used for the relief of urinary symptoms associated with BPH.
Silodosin selectively binds to alpha-1A adrenoceptors located in the prostate and bladder. By blocking these receptors, it relaxes the smooth muscle in the lower urinary tract, which reduces bladder outlet obstruction and improves urine flow.
Typical Dosage Instructions
Symptoms of overdose may include extreme dizziness, fainting, and low blood pressure. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.
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Drug Interactions
Supplement and Herbal Interactions
| Silodosin | Tamsulosin |
|---|---|
| Silodosin is an alpha-adrenergic blocker which is used to improve urination in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. The medication is available by prescription only. | Tamsulosin is an alpha-blocker which relaxes the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate. |
| It functions by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder, rather than shrinking the prostate. | Tamsulosin is used by men for the treatment of an enlarged prostate. It doesn't shrink the prostate but works by relaxing the prostate and bladder. |
Some of the common side effects of Silodosin are:
|
Some of the serious side effects of Tamsulosin are:
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040-68334455Silodosin is an alpha-adrenergic (AL-fa ad-ren-ER-jik) blocker used to help men with benign prostatic hyperplasia urinate more easily (enlarged prostate). 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 often or urgently.
Some of the common side effects of Silodosin include dizziness, diarrhea, orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up), and headache. These effects are generally mild and may improve with continued use.
Silodosin is the most potent AB with the quickest onset of action. Silodosin also enhances the quality of life in patients with BPH-related LUTS and increases the maximum flow rate objectively. Silodosin, on the other hand, has more side effects than tamsulosin and alfuzosin.
Erectile function is normally unaffected by silodosin. The drug, on the other hand, may cause ejaculatory dysfunction and inability to ejaculate. If you have any adverse effects or are experiencing any uneasiness when taking this drug, call your doctor right away.
Silodosin is normally taken once a day with a meal. It's best to take it at the same time every day. The dosage is decreased by the doctor in patients who have some form of kidney failure. If a patient is unable to swallow the pills, they should open them and sprinkle the powder on a tablespoon of applesauce. Drink a glass of this mixture right away, without chewing, within 5 minutes.
The maximum recommended dose of Silodosin is 8 mg once daily, taken with a meal. For patients with moderate kidney impairment, the dose may be reduced to 4 mg once daily as prescribed by a doctor.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.