Questions and Answers
What is the brand name of Tamsulosin?
What is the generic name for Flomax?
Tamsulosin
What is Tamsulosin indicated for?
Treatment of the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
What is the starting dose of Tamsulosin?
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What is the medication class of Tamsulosin?
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What is the mechanism of action of Tamsulosin?
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What are some common side effects of Tamsulosin?
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What should patients be warned about when taking Tamsulosin?
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When should the dose of Tamsulosin be taken?
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What is a precaution regarding Tamsulosin therapy?
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Study Notes
Brand and Generic Names
- Brand name: Flomax
- Generic name: Tamsulosin
Indications
- Primarily used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms.
Dosing Information
- Starting dose: 0.4 mg capsule daily, taken 30 minutes after the same meal each day.
- If no improvement after 2-4 weeks, dose can be increased to 0.8 mg or two capsules daily, adhering to the same timing with meals.
Available Strengths and Dosage Forms
- Medication available in capsule form at a strength of 0.4 mg.
Medication Class
- Classified as a prostate anti-inflammatory agent.
Pharmacology
- Acts as a selective α-adrenergic blocker targeting receptors in the prostate.
- Relaxation of prostate gland and bladder neck leads to improved urinary flow and alleviation of BPH symptoms.
Drug Interactions
- Concurrent use with other α-adrenergic blockers may enhance side effects (risk category X).
- Cimetidine can increase plasma levels of tamsulosin, potentially leading to adverse effects.
Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
- Common side effects include headache, dizziness, rhinitis, and infection.
- Notable adverse effects: abnormal ejaculation and first-dose orthostatic hypotension.
- Other possible side effects: asthenia, back pain, pharyngitis, diarrhea, chest pain, cough, somnolence, insomnia, nausea, and sinusitis.
Contraindications
- Prior testing is necessary to exclude prostate carcinoma before initiating therapy for BPH.
- Patients may experience orthostatic hypotension, necessitating caution to prevent syncope and dizziness.
Patient Counseling Points
- Take medication 30 minutes after the same meal each day; skip missed doses without doubling up.
- Caution patients about potential dizziness, especially when standing up.
- Storage instructions: keep in a cool, dry place, out of sunlight.
- Advise against discontinuation without physician approval.
- Encourage reporting of severe or bothersome side effects to healthcare providers.
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Description
Test your knowledge on Tamsulosin with these flashcards! This quiz covers key terms, definitions, and dosing information pertinent to the medication Flomax, including its uses for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Perfect for healthcare professionals or students studying pharmacology.
