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Tamsulosin is indicated for the treatment of functional symptoms (i.e. urinary retention) of benign prostatic
hyperplasia (prostate enlargement); commonly referred to as BPH. Tamsulosin is an alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonist
(alpha-blocker) that relaxes the muscles in the prostate gland and urethra thereby increasing the urinary flow-rate and
an improvement in obstructive symptoms.
See the NICE guidance - Lower urinary tract symptoms in men; management (CG97) for information on lower urinary
tract symptoms in men.
Supply criteria
Male patient: aged between 45 and 75 years of age
Symptoms of BPH present for a minimum of three months
A two week supply of tamsulosin can be supplied initially
If there has been an improvement in urinary symptoms within the initial two
weeks, a further supply of four weeks can be made
After 6 weeks, a further supply can be made only where the patient confirms
that the doctor has carried out a clinical assessment and agreed further
supplies are appropriate
Counselling points
One capsule to be taken after the same meal each day
Modified-release preparations should be swallowed whole: not crushed or chewed
Patients should see their doctor within six weeks of starting treatment
Patients should see their doctor every 12 months for a clinical review
Patients should be advised that if they experience any dizziness or weakness they should sit or lie down until the
symptoms have gone
Drowsiness or dizziness may affect performance of skilled tasks (e.g. driving)
Further information:
Summary of Product Characteristics (Electronic Medicines Compendium): https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/
BNF: www.bnf.org/
NHS Choices: www.nhs.uk/pages/home.aspx
NICE guidance: Lower urinary tract symptoms in men: management (CG97)
Members can contact RPS Professional support:
Online: www.rpharms.com/enquiry Phone: 0845 257 2570 Email: support@rpharms.com
Issued April 2016
Copyright Royal Pharmaceutical Society 2016
Patient characteristics:
Other contraindications:
Verapamil
Diclofenac
Warfarin
Warning:
Symptoms:
Enhanced hypotensive
effects with other alpha1adrenoceptor antagonists
i.e
- doxazosin
Referral
Dysuria
Haematuria
Cloudy urine
- indoramin
- prazosin
- terazosin
History of:
Hypersensitivity to:
Referral criteria:
Postural or orthostatic
hypotension
Tamsulosin
The information in this guide is based on the Summary of Product Characteristics of OTC tamsulosin. The guide is
intended as a quick reference and you should interpret all information and advice in the light of your own professional
knowledge.