Generic
Alfuzosin
5 brands available in the market
At a glance
Alfuzosin Hydrochloride is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker used to relieve the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate enlargement . It relaxes the muscles in the prostate, bladder neck, and urethra to improve urine flow . It does not shrink the prostate but helps with symptoms like difficulty urinating, frequent urination at night, and incomplete bladder emptying . In Bangladesh, it is available as Alfasin XR (Incepta Pharmaceuticals), Flotral, Uriten (Square Pharmaceuticals), Zatral (Eskayef), etc., in 10 mg extended-release tablets .
Description
Alfuzosin is an alpha adrenergic antagonist that is used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It helps to relieve symptoms like difficulty in passing urine. However, it does not decrease the size of the prostate. Alfuzosin is advised to take it in a dose and duration as per prescription. It should be taken with food, but take at the same time regularly. Swallow the medicine as a whole without crushing or chewing it. You should not stop taking the medicine without consulting the doctor as it may lead to the worsening of your symptoms. The course of the treatment should be completed for better efficacy of the medicine. Some common side effects of this medicine are upper respiratory tract infection, headache, and tiredness. It may also lead to blurry vision or dizziness, so it is advised to avoid driving while on the medication. If any of the side effects persist or bother you, you must consult the doctor without delay. Simple lifestyle changes can help you manage your symptoms better. Try to urinate as soon as you feel the urge, however, never strain or push to empty your bladder. You should avoid drinking caffeinated or alcoholic drinks at night and a few hours before going to bed or going out. Before receiving the treatment, inform your doctor if you are on any medication for any other health condition. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, tell your doctor prior to the treatment. If you have to undergo eye surgery due to cataract or glaucoma than inform your eye doctor about the usage of this medicine. Patients with liver or kidney disease must be cautious while receiving the prescription, and they must receive regular follow-ups as per the doctor's advice. Alfuzosin is an alpha blocker. It works by relaxing muscle around the bladder exit and prostate gland so urine is passed more easily.
Indications
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Treatment of the signs and symptoms of BPH. • Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS): Treatment of BPH-associated urinary frequency, nocturia, incomplete bladder emptying, and urinary hesitancy. • Acute Urinary Retention (AUR): Adjuvant treatment with catheterization, particularly in patients aged 65 years and older.
Therapeutic class
Alpha-1 Blocker / Uroselective Alpha-blocker
Pharmacology
Alfuzosin Hydrochloride is a quinazoline derivative that acts as a competitive and selective antagonist of alpha-1 adrenoreceptors in the prostate, prostatic capsule, bladder base, and proximal urethra . Blockade of these receptors reduces smooth muscle contraction in the prostate, decreasing urethral pressure and resistance . It also reduces sympathetic nervous stimulation, lowers resting urethral pressure, and inhibits urethral hypertonia-induced sympathetic nervous stimulation . Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) is the principal hepatic enzyme involved in its metabolism .
Mechanism of action
Alfuzosin Hydrochloride competitively binds to post-synaptic alpha-1 adrenoreceptors in the lower urinary tract . This binding reduces smooth muscle contraction in the prostate, bladder neck, and proximal urethra . As a result, urethral resistance is decreased and urine flow is improved, relieving BPH symptoms .
Dosage
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): • Recommended dose: 10 mg tablet once daily, taken immediately after a meal. Acute Urinary Retention (AUR): • In patients aged 65 years and older: 10 mg once daily, taken after a meal, starting from the first day of catheterization. • Duration of treatment: 3–4 days (2–3 days while the catheter is in place and 1 day after catheter removal).
Administration
Use it as advised by your doctor or check the label for directions before use. Alfuzosin is to be taken with food.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Alfuzosin, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common: • Dizziness • Headache • Tiredness
Precautions & warnings
[UNSAFE] Alfuzosin may decrease alertness, affect your vision or make you feel sleepy and dizzy. Do not drive if these symptoms occur. Flotral 10 Tablet PR helps in relieving the symptoms of enlarged prostate. It does not decrease the size of the prostate. Flotral 10 Tablet PR must be taken with food. You will feel better within hours or days of starting the treatment. Full effect is usually seen within 2 weeks. Flotral 10 Tablet PR may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you. If you are scheduled to undergo an eye surgery due to cataract or glaucoma, inform your eye doctor about the usage of Flotral 10 Tablet PR. Inform your doctor if you have ever been diagnosed with kidney or liver problems.
Contraindications
Moderate to severe hepatic impairment Patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, or ritonavir Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) Hypersensitivity to alfuzosin or any of its components Pregnancy and breastfeeding (not indicated for use in women)
Drug interactions
Severe hepatic impairment; history of postural hypotension and micturition syncope; intestinal occlusion; severe renal insufficiency; lactation.
Food interactions
[UNSAFE] Alfuzosin may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
Use in pregnancy
[SAFE IF PRESCRIBED] Alfuzosin is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby; however, there are limited human studies.
Use in lactation
[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] Information regarding the use of Alfuzosin during breastfeeding is not available. Please consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Efficacy has not been demonstrated in children (2-16 years), so it is not indicated for use in the pediatric population .
Geriatric use
Elderly patients (≥75 years) may have approximately 35% higher plasma concentrations than those below 65 years . No dosage adjustment is generally needed, but blood pressure should be monitored .
Renal / hepatic impairment
[CAUTION] Alfuzosin should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Alfuzosin may be needed. Please consult your doctor. [CAUTION] Alfuzosin should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Alfuzosin may be needed. Please consult your doctor. Use of Alfuzosin is not recommended in patients with moderate and severe liver disease.
Overdose effects
Overdose may lead to significant hypotension . The patient should be kept in a supine position, and conventional treatment for hypotension should be given . Intravenous fluids and vasopressors may be used if necessary .
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light . Keep out of reach of children.