Alfuzosin
Alfuzosin is an alpha-blocker taken by men whose enlarged prostate is causing troublesome urinary symptoms. It relaxes the muscle around the prostate and bladder neck so urine can pass more freely. Each prolonged-release tablet is designed to act over a full day from a single dose.
Medicine containing Alfuzosin
Key points
- Alfuzosin is a selective alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonist, one of the alpha-blocker class.
- Its effect begins within 1 to 2 hours of a dose and lasts around 24 hours.
- It is not intended for use in women or children.
What it is used for
Alfuzosin treats Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, a condition in which an enlarged prostate narrows the outlet from the bladder. Men with this condition often notice a weak stream and repeated trips to the toilet at night, and easing the muscular squeeze on the urethra helps with both. It sits within the broader range of Prostate Health treatments.
How it works
Smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder neck carries alpha1-adrenoceptors. Alfuzosin blocks these receptors, so the muscle relaxes and resistance to urine flow falls. With that resistance reduced, the bladder empties more easily.
Forms and brands
Uroxatral is supplied as a 10mg prolonged-release tablet. Gradual release keeps the effect steady across the day rather than rising and falling between doses. Orders are prepared by pharmacy partners in India and shipped to Malaysia in discreet packaging.
Safety
Who should not take it
Alfuzosin is unsuitable for anyone with hypersensitivity to it, a history of orthostatic hypotension, severe hepatic impairment, or concurrent use of another alpha-blocker. It is not for women or children. Share your full medical history with your prescriber before starting.
Side effects
Dizziness, fatigue and headache are the common minor effects. Postural hypotension, tachycardia and nausea may also occur. Syncope and severe hypotension are serious and require immediate medical attention. Fainting is a particular risk during initial dosing, so blood pressure should be monitored and rapid position changes avoided.
Interactions
Ketoconazole, ritonavir and nitrates interact with alfuzosin. Other medicines that lower blood pressure can amplify that effect.
Further reading
FAQ
What is alfuzosin used for?
Alfuzosin treats benign prostatic hyperplasia, a condition in which an enlarged prostate narrows the outlet from the bladder. Easing the muscular squeeze on the urethra helps with a weak stream and repeated trips to the toilet at night.
How does alfuzosin work?
Alfuzosin blocks alpha1-adrenoceptors in the smooth muscle of the prostate and bladder neck. This relaxes the muscle and lowers resistance to urine flow, so the bladder empties more easily.
When is alfuzosin unsuitable?
Alfuzosin is unsuitable for anyone with hypersensitivity to it, a history of orthostatic hypotension, severe hepatic impairment, or concurrent use of another alpha-blocker. It is not for women or children.
What can I order that contains alfuzosin?
You'll find alfuzosin in Uroxatral, among others. The listing above lets you compare forms, strengths and packs.
How long does alfuzosin take to work?
Its effect begins within 1 to 2 hours of a dose and lasts around 24 hours.
What side effects can alfuzosin cause?
Common minor effects include dizziness, fatigue and headache. Postural hypotension, tachycardia and nausea may also occur. Syncope and severe hypotension are serious and require immediate medical attention; speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.
Can alfuzosin interact with other medicines?
Ketoconazole, ritonavir and nitrates interact with alfuzosin. Other medicines that lower blood pressure can amplify that effect, so speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you take other medicines.
What other brand names does alfuzosin go by?
Apart from what's listed here, you may see alfuzosin sold as Xatral. Brand names change from country to country, so the active ingredient is the safest thing to compare.
Do you send alfuzosin to Malaysia?
Yes. Our pharmacy partners send orders from India to Malaysia in plain, discreet packaging. Express Tracked Courier takes up to 1 week; Standard Airmail can take up to 3 weeks.
How ordering works →Last updated