Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can be described in anatomical terms, both microscopic and macroscopic. Microscopic BPH refers to histologic evidence of smooth-muscle hyperplasia as well as stromal and epithelial proliferation of the prostate. Often BPH manifests anatomically as benign prostatic enlargement (BPE).1
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The clinical manifestations of BPH and attendant BPE (ie, lower urinary tract symptoms [LUTS]) are closely related to the degree of bladder outlet (bladder neck) obstruction (BOO). These range from minimally bothersome urinary symptoms to urinary retention and renal failure.1
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Prevalence and impact of BPH |
Important Safety Information
FLOMAX is indicated to treat the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). FLOMAX is not indicated to treat hypertension. As with other alpha-adrenergic blocking agents, there is a potential risk of syncope. Patients beginning treatment with FLOMAX should be cautioned to avoid driving or hazardous tasks for 12 hours after their first dose or increase in dose should syncope occur. The most common side effects are dizziness, abnormal ejaculation, and rhinitis.
Caution should be exercised with concomitant administration of warfarin and FLOMAX. In addition, FLOMAX should be used with caution in combination with cimetidine, particularly at doses higher than 0.4 mg. FLOMAX is contraindicated in patients known to be hypersensitive to tamsulosin HCl or any component of FLOMAX.
Before prescribing FLOMAX, please see the full Prescribing Information.
1. Lepor H, et al. In: Campbell MF, Walsh PC, Retik AB, eds. Campbell's Urology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders Co; 2002.
