Alfumax 2.5

Indications

Alfuzosin Hydrochloride is used in men to relieve urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH), such as a weak stream, difficulty starting, frequent urination and needing to pass urine at night. It is also sometimes used to help men pass urine after acute urinary retention caused by an enlarged prostate.

How It Works

Alfuzosin is an alpha-1 blocker. It relaxes the smooth muscle in the prostate and the neck of the bladder, which widens the passage for urine and makes it easier to pass. It does not shrink the prostate.

Dosage and Administration

• Extended-release tablets: usually 10 mg once a day, taken immediately after the same meal each day (often the evening meal).
• Immediate-release tablets: usually 2.5 mg two or three times a day, as prescribed; older men often start with a lower dose.
• Swallow extended-release tablets whole; do not crush or chew. The first dose is often taken at bedtime to reduce dizziness.

Interactions

• Do not take with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Ritonavir or Clarithromycin, which greatly raise alfuzosin levels.
• Do not combine with other alpha blockers such as Tamsulosin, Prazosin or Doxazosin.
• Blood pressure medicines, nitrates (such as Glyceryl Trinitrate) and erection medicines such as Sildenafil or Tadalafil can add to the blood pressure lowering effect.
• Alcohol can increase dizziness.

Contraindications

• Allergy to alfuzosin.
• Moderate to severe liver disease.
• History of fainting or low blood pressure on standing (orthostatic hypotension).
• Use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or other alpha blockers.
• Not for use in women or children.

Side Effects

Common effects include dizziness, especially on standing up, headache, tiredness, upper respiratory symptoms such as a blocked nose, nausea and stomach upset. Less often: fast heartbeat, drowsiness, rash and ankle swelling.

Get urgent medical help if you faint, have chest pain, a painful erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism), yellowing of the skin or eyes, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or throat.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Alfuzosin is for use in men only and is not indicated for women, so pregnancy and breastfeeding do not apply.

Precautions and Warnings

• Stand up slowly, especially after the first doses, to avoid dizziness or fainting. Do not drive if you feel dizzy.
• If you are going to have cataract or glaucoma surgery, tell your eye surgeon you take or have taken alfuzosin (risk of floppy iris syndrome).
• Prostate cancer can cause similar symptoms; your doctor may check for it before starting.
• Take care if you have heart disease, a long QT interval or kidney problems.

Overdose

Overdose may cause a large drop in blood pressure with dizziness and fainting. Lie down with the legs raised and get emergency medical help.

Therapeutic Class

Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker (urinary tract smooth muscle relaxant).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of the reach of children.