How does Flomax work?

Flomax works by relaxing the veins and the arteries, in order for the blood to be able to easily flow through them. The medication is also effective in relaxing the muscles within the prostate and the bladder neck, thereby making it easier for men to urinate. Flomax is primarily used in treating incontinence in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

How to take Flomax.

Flomax is available in capsule form. Before intake, the patient should ensure that he has undergone thorough consultation with a doctor regarding use and dosage, and the prescription of a physician must be strictly followed in order to obtain the intended benefit from the drug. Flomax capsules are ingested orally, usually half an hour after taking the same meal every day. The capsule should be swallowed whole; avoid breaking, opening, crushing, and chewing the capsule before intake, in order to slowly diffuse the substance within the body.

Side Effects.

Common adverse effects as a result of intake of Flomax include weakness, a decreased sexual ability, drowsiness, back pains, blurry vision, a feeling of light-headedness, inflamed sinuses, insomnia, coughing, dizziness, and a stuffy and runny nose. In the presence of such symptoms, consult with a doctor. If the following severe adverse effects are experienced, immediately seek medical help: persisting dizziness; an allergic reaction; a sustained and painful erection; chest pains; fever with chills; a stubborn sore throat; fainting; and an irregular heartbeat.

Precautions and Interactions.

Patients who have an allergy with any component of Flomax, and those who are taking another type of alpha blocker, are strongly discouraged from taking the medication. There are also certain medical conditions which may interact with Flomax. Seek medical advice from a doctor if the patient has the following health conditions: those who are pregnant, or planning on pregnancy, or are breastfeeding; those who are taking other medications; those who have an allergy with other medications or substances; those who have an allergy with any sulfonamide medication; those with a background of abnormally high blood pressure and prostate cancer; and those who are planning on undergoing eye surgery. Medications which can interact with Flomax include alpha blockers, azole antifungals, and warfarin.

Missed Dose.

Take a missed intake of Flomax as soon as necessary, provided that the next scheduled intake is not almost due. Otherwise, proceed with the normal intake schedule and skip the missed dose. If several doses are missed consecutively, consult with a doctor first before reverting back to the intake schedule; the patient may necessarily need a lower dose as consequence.

Overdose.

Seek immediate medical help if these possible indications of an overdose are present: cold and clammy skin, fainting, rapid heartbeat, light-headedness, and severe headache.

Storage.

Keep Flomax within normal room temperatures, and away from excessive heat and moisture, sealed within a tightly-capped container.