Uroxatral (alfuzosin HCl) is a prescription medication specifically designed to treat the urinary symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). As an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist, it works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, facilitating improved urine flow and reducing bothersome urinary symptoms. This medication represents a well-established option in urological therapeutics, offering targeted action with a favorable pharmacokinetic profile for appropriate patients.

Features

• Contains alfuzosin hydrochloride as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Available in 10 mg extended-release tablets
• Designed for once-daily oral administration
• Utilizes a specialized extended-release delivery system
• Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards
• Requires prescription and medical supervision

Benefits

• Significantly improves urinary flow rate and reduces residual urine volume
• Decreases frequency and urgency of urination, particularly nocturia
• Redves straining during urination and improves bladder emptying
• Provides symptomatic relief while maintaining sexual function in most patients
• Offers convenient once-daily dosing regimen
• Demonstrates rapid onset of action with sustained therapeutic effect

Common use

Uroxatral is primarily indicated for the treatment of signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This condition, characterized by non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, affects a significant portion of the male population, particularly those over age 50. Patients typically experience lower urinary tract symptoms including weak urinary stream, hesitancy, intermittency, incomplete bladder emptying, and increased frequency and urgency of urination. The medication is specifically formulated to address these obstructive and irritative symptoms without affecting prostate size.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage of Uroxatral is one 10 mg extended-release tablet taken orally once daily, immediately following the same meal each day. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or divided. The medication should be taken at approximately the same time each day to maintain consistent plasma concentrations. Dosage adjustment is not typically required for elderly patients or those with renal impairment, but caution is advised in patients with hepatic impairment. Treatment response should be evaluated periodically to determine continued need for therapy.

Precautions

Patients should be screened for prostate cancer before initiating therapy and regularly during treatment, as BPH symptoms may mimic those of prostate cancer. Orthostatic hypotension with or without symptoms may occur within hours following administration, particularly during initial treatment or dose increases. Patients should avoid situations where injury could result should syncope occur. Caution is advised when Uroxatral is administered to patients with severe renal impairment, moderate to severe hepatic impairment, or a history of QT prolongation. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is recommended, especially during the initial phase of treatment.

Contraindications

Uroxatral is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to alfuzosin hydrochloride or any component of the formulation. It is also contraindicated in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment due to significantly increased alfuzosin exposure. Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, or ritonavir is contraindicated due to potentially dangerous increases in alfuzosin concentrations. The medication should not be used in combination with other alpha-adrenergic blocking agents.

Possible side effect

Common adverse reactions include dizziness (5.7%), upper respiratory tract infection (3.0%), headache (3.0%), and fatigue (2.6%). Less frequently reported effects include orthostatic hypotension (0.4%), syncope (0.4%), and tachycardia (0.2%). Gastrointestinal disturbances such as abdominal pain, dyspepsia, constipation, and nausea may occur in approximately 1-2% of patients. Sexual dysfunction including erectile dysfunction and decreased libido has been reported in less than 2% of patients. Most side effects are mild to moderate in severity and often diminish with continued therapy.

Drug interaction

Uroxatral is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes and exhibits significant interactions with CYP3A4 inhibitors. Concomitant administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated. Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors should be used with caution. Concurrent use with other alpha-adrenergic antagonists may potentiate hypotensive effects. Antihypertensive medications and phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of Uroxatral. Careful monitoring is recommended when used concomitantly with medications that prolong the QT interval.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day with food. However, if it is near the time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Maintaining consistent daily administration following a meal is crucial for optimal therapeutic effect and minimizing potential side effects.

Overdose

In case of overdose, supportive care should be instituted with particular attention to maintaining adequate hydration and blood pressure. Expected manifestations would include pronounced hypotension, possibly requiring intravenous fluids and vasopressors. Patients should be kept in supine position and vital signs monitored closely. Since Uroxatral is highly protein-bound, dialysis is not likely to be effective. Symptomatic treatment should be provided based on clinical presentation, with particular vigilance for cardiovascular effects.

Storage

Store Uroxatral tablets at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed to protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Proper disposal of unused medication should follow local regulations for pharmaceutical waste.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Uroxatral is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to medication may vary, and only a healthcare provider can determine the appropriate treatment based on individual medical history, current condition, and other factors. Patients should not initiate, discontinue, or change dosage without consulting their physician.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that Uroxatral provides significant improvement in IPSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) with mean reductions of 4-6 points from baseline. Patient-reported outcomes indicate meaningful improvement in quality of life measures related to urinary symptoms. Long-term studies show maintained efficacy with continued treatment. The majority of patients tolerate the medication well, with discontinuation rates due to adverse events typically below 5% in clinical trials. Many urologists consider Uroxatral a valuable option in the BPH treatment algorithm due to its favorable efficacy and safety profile.