Description

Tamsulosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist, commonly prescribed to relieve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by relaxing smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, thereby improving urine flow, reducing hesitancy, and residual urine volume. It may also be used off-label for ureteral stones or prostatitis relief. 

Prescription

This medication is prescription-only and must be taken under medical supervision. 

Dosage

Usual dosage is 400 micrograms (µg) once daily, typically taken after the same meal each day—often after breakfast to enhance absorption and maintain consistent blood levels. 

Therapeutic Category

• Drug Class: Selective alpha-1A/1D adrenergic receptor blocker (alpha-blocker)
• Indications: Primarily for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); may also be used off-label for conditions like ureteral stones or prostatitis.

Active Ingredients / Composition

Active substance: Tamsulosin hydrochloride, in a prolonged-release capsule form, containing 400 µg per capsule. 

Variant

Typically available as prolonged-release (modified-release) capsules delivering 400 µg doses. Lower or higher strengths may exist depending on brand, but this format is standard.

Consume Type

Oral administration: swallow the capsule whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or open it, as it’s designed for controlled release. 

Directions / Usage

• Take once daily, ideally 30 minutes after the same meal, to optimize absorption and reduce variability. 
• Continue daily use even if symptoms improve. Consult your doctor before stopping the medicine.

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially upon standing (orthostatic hypotension)
• Headache, nasal congestion, back pain, diarrhea, and abnormal ejaculation (e.g. retrograde ejaculation) are also commonly reported. 
• Serious but rare: priapism (painful prolonged erection), severe hypotension, or allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur. 

Package Type

Typically packaged as blister packs containing prolonged-release capsules; variant packaging depends on manufacturer. 

Storage Advice

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children. (General pharmaceutical best practice)

Safety Advice

• Avoid sudden position changes (e.g., assume standing too quickly) to reduce dizziness risk. 
• Drug interactions: Use caution with other blood pressure medications, PDE5 inhibitors, antifungals like ketoconazole, antibiotics like erythromycin/clarithromycin, and warfarin—consult healthcare provider. 
• Not indicated for women or children. 
• Report any fainting, chest pain, or prolonged erection immediately.

Product Substitutes

Generic versions of tamsulosin (e.g., Flomax or other branded equivalents) are available in the same 400 µg prolonged-release form. 

Manufacturer / Marketer

Information on local marketing and manufacturer (e.g., “Xeflo” branding) isn’t publicly detailed. However, import records indicate India and the United Kingdom as key sources for Ghana imports of tamsulosin 400 µg capsules. 

Country of Origin

The most common sources for tamsulosin 400 µg capsules (including those labeled Xeflo XL) are India and the United Kingdom.