Uroxatral (alfuzosin HCl) is a prescription medication specifically designed to manage the urinary symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). As a selective alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist, it works by relaxing the smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder neck, thereby improving urine flow and reducing obstructive symptoms. This medication represents a well-established option in the urological pharmacopeia, offering a mechanism of action focused on symptomatic relief without reducing prostate size. It is intended for use in adult men and requires appropriate diagnostic confirmation before initiation.

Features

• Contains alfuzosin hydrochloride as the active ingredient
• Available in 10 mg extended-release tablets
• Selective antagonism of postsynaptic alpha-1 adrenergic receptors
• Designed for once-daily oral administration
• Formulated to provide consistent 24-hour symptom control

Benefits

• Improves urinary flow rate by reducing bladder outlet obstruction
• Reduces frequency and urgency of urination, especially at night
• Decreases instances of hesitancy and incomplete bladder emptying
• Enhances overall quality of life through sustained symptom management
• Minimizes the need for invasive procedures in appropriately selected patients
• Provides a targeted therapeutic option with a well-characterized safety profile

Common use

Uroxatral is primarily indicated for the treatment of signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is used in men experiencing moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms including weak stream, straining, terminal dribbling, nocturia, and sensation of incomplete emptying. Diagnosis should be confirmed through appropriate urological assessment, including digital rectal examination and prostate-specific antigen testing when indicated, to rule out prostate carcinoma. It is not approved for use in women or pediatric populations.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage is one 10 mg extended-release tablet taken orally once daily, immediately after the same meal each day. Tablets must be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or divided. Administration with food is essential to ensure adequate absorption and maintain consistent pharmacokinetics. Dosage adjustment is not typically required for elderly patients but should be considered in those with hepatic impairment. Treatment should be initiated only after comprehensive urological evaluation confirms BPH diagnosis.

Precautions

Patients should be advised about the potential for orthostatic hypotension, particularly during initial treatment or dose escalation. Caution is warranted when Uroxatral is used concomitantly with other antihypertensive agents. Prior to initiation, patients should be screened for other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, including prostate cancer, stricture disease, and neurogenic bladder. Regular monitoring of urinary symptoms and flow rate is recommended to assess therapeutic response. Patients should avoid activities requiring alertness until they know how the medication affects them.

Contraindications

Uroxatral is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to alfuzosin or any component of the formulation. It is contraindicated in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh categories B and C) due to significantly increased alfuzosin exposure. Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and ritonavir is contraindicated. Use is also contraindicated in patients with a history of orthostatic hypotension or severe renal impairment.

Possible side effects

The most commonly reported adverse reactions include dizziness (6.3%), upper respiratory tract infection (3.2%), headache (3.2%), and fatigue (3.0%). Orthostatic hypotension may occur in approximately 1% of patients. Other potential side effects include abdominal pain, constipation, nausea, and syncope (0.1-0.3%). Priapism, though rare, constitutes a urological emergency requiring immediate medical attention. Most adverse effects are mild to moderate and often diminish with continued therapy.

Drug interaction

Uroxatral is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and should not be co-administered with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors. Concomitant use with other alpha-adrenergic blockers may potentiate hypotensive effects. Additive effects on blood pressure lowering may occur when used with antihypertensive medications, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, and nitrates. Caution is advised with moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors such as diltiazem and verapamil. No clinically significant interactions have been observed with atenolol, digoxin, or warfarin.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day with food. If the missed dose is not remembered until the next day, the patient should skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Double doses should not be taken to make up for a missed dose. Patients should maintain consistent timing relative to meals to optimize pharmacokinetic profile.

Overdose

In case of overdose, supportive care should be instituted with particular attention to maintaining adequate blood pressure and heart rate. Expected manifestations would include pronounced hypotension that may require intravenous fluids and vasopressors. Patient should be placed in supine position with legs elevated. Dialysis is unlikely to be beneficial due to high protein binding. Symptomatic treatment should continue until clinical stabilization is achieved.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 20°-25°C (68°-77°F) with excursions permitted between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F). Keep in original container with 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. Properly dispose of any unused medication through take-back programs or according to FDA guidelines.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Uroxatral is available by prescription only and should be used under appropriate medical supervision. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment recommendations tailored to their individual medical condition. Never initiate or discontinue medication without consulting a qualified healthcare professional.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that Uroxatral provides statistically significant improvement in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) compared to placebo, with mean reductions of 4-6 points from baseline. Maximum urinary flow rate improvements typically range from 1.5-3.0 mL/sec. Long-term extension studies show maintained efficacy over 12-24 months of treatment. Patient-reported outcomes indicate meaningful improvements in quality of life measures, particularly regarding nocturia and urgency symptoms. The medication is generally well-tolerated with discontinuation rates due to adverse events of approximately 5-7% in clinical trials.