FLOMAX®
Tamsulosin 0.4mg modified release capsules
What is FLOMAX and how does it work?
The active ingredient of Flomax modified release capsule is tamsulosin. This is an alpha1-receptor blocker which selectively reduces tension of the muscles in the prostate and urethra. This enables urine to pass more readily through the urethra and facilitates urination.
What can FLOMAX be used for?
Flomax is specifically used in men for the treatment of the complaints associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia such as: urinating with difficulty, dribbling, urgency and having to urinate frequently at night as well as during the day.
What you should know before using Flomax
When should you not use Flomax?
You should not take Flomax if you are allergic to tamsulosin or one of the inactive ingredients or suffer from serious liver insufficiency. You should also not take Flomax if you have a history of orthostatic hypotension, i.e. you are likely to suffer from dizziness, due to a fall in blood pressure when going to sit or stand up. Ask your doctor.
Your doctor will assess your condition by digital rectal examination and, if necessary, prostate specific antigen (PSA) determination, before prescribing Flomax. PSA may also be determined at regular intervals while on treatment.
If you have severe kidney impairment your doctor will need to know.
Effects on the ability to drive or operate machinery
There is no evidence that Flomax affects the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, you should be aware that dizziness can occur, in which case you should not partake in these activities.
Interactions
Other alpha1 blockers taken with Flomax can lead to hypotensive effects (lowering of blood pressure, dizziness). Tell your doctor all other medicines or health foods you are taking, including those you buy from a pharmacy, health food shop, or supermarket.
Guidelines for the use of Flomax
How should Flomax be used?
One capsule is taken daily. This should be taken after breakfast. The capsule is swallowed whole with a drink of water (about 150ml). Make sure you're in the sitting position. Do not chew the capsule.
Read the label carefully. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Have you missed a dose of Flomax?
You may take your daily Flomax capsule later the same day if you have forgotten to take it after breakfast. If you have missed a day, just continue to take your daily capsule as prescribed. Do not take a double dose.
Side Effects
Discuss with your doctor any possible side effects with respect to your specific medical background.
Side effects may include dizziness, particularly when you are getting up after sitting or lying down, and retrograde ejaculation (ejaculation inwards into the bladder instead of outwards - this is not dangerous).
Less frequent side effects include:
- weakness
- headache
- fast or irregular heart beats (known as palpitations)
- allergic reactions.
Special precautions for the use of Flomax
Periodic medical examinations are necessary during long-term use of this product.
Very rarely, fainting can occur during the use of Flomax. At the first signs of dizziness or weakness you should sit or lie down until they have disappeared.
Warning concerning certain additives
The capsule wall contains the colouring substance E171, which rarely may cause allergic reactions of the skin (itching, red spots).
How to store Flomax
The capsule should not be used after the date stated on the blister pack. This date is preceded by 'EXP'. Keep out of the reach of children! Store below 30°C, out of direct sunlight, in a dry place.
Other information
This medicine has been prescribed to you by your doctor. You should, therefore, strictly follow his/her directions. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor.
Other ingredients
Microcrystalline cellulose, methylacrylic acid copolymer, polysorbate 80, sodium lauryl sulphate, triacetin, calcium stearate, talc, hard gelatin, Indigotine E132, Titanium dioxide E171, Yellow iron oxide E172 and Red iron oxide E172.
