Benign prostatic hypertrophy is a condition of an enlarged prostate. The prostate is a gland in men that sits just below the bladder and produces most of the seminal fluid in semen. An enlarged prostate can constrict the urethra that passes through it causing difficulty with urination. Symptoms of BPH often include difficulty starting urination, dribbling at the end of urination, straining while urinating, formation of stones in the bladder, impaired kidney function and blood in the urine. Physicians prescribe medications to help alleviate the symptoms of BPH.
Tamsulosin
Physician commonly use tamsulosin to treat the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy. Tamsulosin works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and the opening of the bladder. Tamsulosin does not shrink the prostate and the prostate may continue to grow, leading to a worsening of symptoms over time. Physicians suggest taking this medication at the same time every day, 30 minutes after a meal, according to the Mayo Clinic. Side effects of tamsulosin include cough or hoarseness, painful or difficult urination, fever, chills or lower back or side pain. In rare cases, patients may experience dizziness, fainting, feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings, a spinning sensation or a painful or prolonged erection of the penis. Patients should alert physician immediately if they experience any of these symptoms.
Dutasteride
Dutasteride belongs to a class of medications called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. According to the National Institutes of Health, dutasteride works by blocking the production of the natural substance that causes enlargement of the prostate, allowing the prostate to shrink. This helps ease symptoms and decrease the chances of needing surgery later. Side effects of dutasteride can include inability to have or maintain an erection, decreased sex drive, difficulty ejaculating and breast tenderness or enlargement.
Alfuzosin
Alfuzosin belongs to a class of medications known as alpha blockers. Alfuzosin works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and the opening of the bladder. Physicians commonly prescribe alfuzosin once a day and recommend that patients take it with food. The National Institutes of Health warns that alfuzosin may cause side effects such as tiredness, runny or stuffy nose, headache, pain, stomach pain, heartburn, constipation, nausea and decrease in sexual abilities.
Doxazosin
Doxazosin belongs to a group of drugs called alpha-adrenergic blockers and physicians use it to treat hypertension and benign prostatic hypertrophy. Doxazosin works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder, allowing for easier passage of urine. Doxazosin also relaxes the blood vessels, which can lower the blood pressure. Drugs.com warns that patients using doxazosin may feel dizzy upon waking and should take care when standing. Side effects of doxazosin may include weakness, headache, dizziness, diarrhea and stomach pain. In rare cases, patients may experience fast or pounding heartbeats, lightheadedness, fainting, swelling in the hands, feet and ankles, penis erection that is painful or lasts longer than four hours. Patients should report these symptoms to their physicians immediately.
