Alfuzosin Extended-Release Tablets

What is this medication?

ALFUZOSIN (al FYOO zoe sin) treats the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia). It works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder, which makes it easier to urinate. It belongs to a group of medications called alpha blockers.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Uroxatral

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Low blood pressure
• An unusual or allergic reaction to alfuzosin, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medication after the same meal every day. Take this medication with food. Do not take on an empty stomach. Swallow whole. Do not cut, crush or chew this medication. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. This medication is not approved for use in children.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

• Another alpha blocker medication, such as doxazosin, prazosin, silodosin, tamsulosin, terazosin
• Certain medications for fungal infections like fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole
• Cisapride
• Dronedarone
• Droperidol
• Pimozide
• Ritonavir
• Thioridazine

This medication may also interact with the following:

• Avanafil
• Cimetidine
• Certain medications for chest pain or blood pressure
• Dofetilide
• Grapefruit juice
• Other medications that prolong the QT interval (cause an abnormal heart rhythm)
• Sildenafil
• Tadalafil
• Vardenafil
• Ziprasidone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure regularly. Ask your care team what your blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her.

Drowsiness and dizziness are more likely to occur after the first dose, after an increase in dose, or during hot weather or exercise. These effects can decrease once your body adjusts to this medication. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Contact your care team right away if you have an erection that lasts longer than 4 hours or if it becomes painful. This may be a sign of a serious problem and must be treated right away to prevent permanent damage.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Chest pain (angina)—pain, pressure, or tightness in the chest, neck, back, or arms
• Low blood pressure—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, blurry vision
• Prolonged or painful erection

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Change in sex drive or performance
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Runny or stuffy nose

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.