Doctors may prescribe the generically named drug tamsulosin, sold in the United States as Flomax, to help reduce the symptoms of BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia, the medical term for an enlarged prostate gland. Because the prostate surrounds the urethra or tube from the bladder to the penis for the expulsion of urine, as the gland grows, it can cut off urine flow. Flomax helps to lessen the constriction of the muscles in the area, which allows normal urination.
Urination Difficulties
Using Flomax can produce some serious side effects that need help from a doctor because they may indicate potential health problems. The drug can, for example, have the opposite effect intended by the manufacturer, and cause the person to have difficulties urinating and have pain during urination. MayoClinic.com recommends an immediate consultation with a physician if new problems with urination occur after taking Flomax.
Flu-like Symptoms
Flomax can induce serious side effects that appear as if the person has a cold or the flu, with symptoms such as cough, hoarseness, chills and fever. Although the Flomax user may not immediately associate these problems with the medication, he should ask his physician about them immediately when he does.
Pain
As Flomax works to relax the muscles in the area of the prostate gland and the bladder, it can cause pain in the left or right side, or in the lower back. These types of pain symptoms require immediate help from a doctor, notes MayoClinic.com.
Sexual Problems
Taking Flomax can temporarily cause a reduction in the man's ability to perform sexually. Drugs.com indicates that this side effect generally ends without a doctor's aid, but recommends a medical consultation if it continues.
Blurry Vision
Flomax users may experience a temporary blurring of vision during the initial use of the drug. Flomax works as a muscle relaxant, which may cause problems elsewhere in the body, such as the eyes. Considered a non-serious and temporary side effect of Flomax, Drugs.com recommends reporting blurry vision to a doctor if it appears severe or if it persists.
