Description

Tamsulosin hydrochloride is a selective alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker used in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by relaxing the smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urinary flow and reducing symptoms such as difficulty starting urination, weak stream, and frequent nighttime urination.

Prescription

Prescription-only medicine (Rx).

Therapeutic Category

• Urological agent
• Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist
  

Active Ingredients/Composition

• Tamsulosin hydrochloride 400 mcg (0.4 mg) per capsule/tablet
  

Vitamins

• None

Minerals

• None

Variant

• Oral capsules or tablets
• Strength: 0.4 mg (400 mcg)
• Brand: Exeter
• Pack sizes typically 30 capsules/tablets
  

Consume Type

• Oral administration (swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed)
  

Directions/Usage

• Standard adult dose: 0.4 mg once daily, preferably after the same meal each day.
• If the response is inadequate after 2–4 weeks, the dose may be increased to 0.8 mg daily (two 0.4 mg capsules).
• Should be taken with water, capsule swallowed whole.
  

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness, lightheadedness (especially on standing)
• Ejaculation disorders (retrograde ejaculation, reduced semen volume)
• Headache
• Fatigue/weakness
• Nasal congestion/runny nose
  

Rare but serious: orthostatic hypotension, priapism (prolonged erection), allergic reactions, intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (during cataract/glaucoma surgery).

Package Type

• Blister packs containing 30 capsules/tablets, packed in a carton.
  

Storage Advice

• Store at room temperature (15–30 °C)
• Protect from light and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
  

Safety Advice

• Take after the same meal daily to reduce dizziness risk.
• Rise slowly from sitting/lying positions to avoid fainting.
• Inform your doctor before undergoing eye surgery (risk of IFIS).
• Not intended for use in women or children.
• Caution in patients with severe liver impairment, low blood pressure, or kidney disease.
• Do not discontinue without consulting a doctor.
  

Product Substitutes

• Other tamsulosin brands: Flomax, Omnic, Contiflo, Prostam, Urimax, Harnal
• Alternative BPH medicines:
  • Other alpha-blockers: Alfuzosin, Doxazosin, Terazosin
  • 5-alpha reductase inhibitors: Finasteride, Dutasteride
    

Manufacturer/Marketer

• Exeter brand is marketed by regional pharmaceutical distributors (often India, Middle East, or Africa).
• Generic tamsulosin is widely produced globally.
  

Country of Origin

• Tamsulosin was originally developed in Japan (Yamanouchi Pharmaceutical, now Astellas Pharma).
• The Exeter brand is regionally manufactured or distributed (exact country depends on distributor, often India).