What is Uroxatral used for?

Uroxatral is a prescription medicine that is called an “alpha-blocker”. Uroxatral is used in adult men to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Uroxatral may help to relax the muscles in the prostate and the bladder which may lessen the symptoms of BPH and improve urine flow. 

Before prescribing Uroxatral, your doctor may examine your prostate gland and do a blood test called a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test to check for prostate cancer. Prostate cancer and BPH can cause the same symptoms. Prostate cancer needs a different treatment. 

Uroxatral is not for use in women or children. 

Some medicines called “alpha-blockers” are used to treat high blood pressure. Uroxatral has not been studied for the treatment of high blood pressure.

Who should not take Uroxatral?

Do not take Uroxatral if you:

• have liver problems

• are taking antifungal drugs like ketoconazole or HIV drugs called protease inhibitors

• are already taking an alpha-blocker for either high blood pressure or prostate problems

• are a woman

• are a child under the age of 18

• are allergic to Uroxatral. The active ingredient is alfuzosin hydrochloride.

Special Warnings with Uroxatral:

Uroxatral can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when you start treatment. This may lead to fainting, dizziness, or lightheadedness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do any dangerous activities until you know how Uroxatral affects you. This is especially important if you already have a problem with low blood pressure or take medicines to treat high blood pressure. If you begin to feel dizzy or lightheaded, lie down with your legs and feet up, and if your symptoms do not improve call your doctor.
 

What should I tell my health care provider?

Tell your health care provider if you:

• have liver problems

• have kidney problems

• or any family members have a rare heart condition known as congenital prolongation of the QT interval.

• have had low blood pressure, especially after taking another medicine. Signs of low blood pressure are fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness.

• have a heart problem called angina (pain in your chest, jaw, or arm).

Tell your health care provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some of your other medicines may affect the way you respond or react to Uroxatral works or Uroxatral may affect how your other medicines work.

What are some possible side effects of Uroxatral? (This is NOT a complete list of side effects reported with Uroxatral. Your health care provider or pharmacist can discuss with you a more complete list of side effects.)

The most common side effects with Uroxatral are:

• dizziness

• headache

• tiredness

For more detailed information about Uroxatral, ask your health care provider or pharmacist.

Date Posted: 8/28/03