Flomax, generically sold as tamsulosin, is a medication used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlargement of the prostate). When you suffer from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urination becomes quite a challenge, as the prostate (a small coin-shaped gland of the male reproductive system) compresses your urethra (region where urine exits). Flomax relaxes your prostate and bladder muscles to allow easier urination, states Drugs.com. If your doctor decides Flomax is the best medication for you, understand its side effects.
Orthostatic Hypotension
Flomax can cause changes in your blood pressure and lead to orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure with changes in your position). Common symptoms of orthostatic hypotension include dizziness, fainting spells, lightheadedness and a spinning sensation, states RxList.com.
Impairment
According to Drugs.com, Flomax can decrease your reaction time and slow your thinking. Avoid driving or operating machinery that requires you to be fully alert and awake.
Male Reproductive Problems
Flomax can also lead to problems with ejaculation. Specifically, it can cause a decrease in ejaculation or a failure to ejaculate. In other instances, you may experience retrograde ejaculation in which semen moves the opposite direction along your ejaculatory duct, states RxList.com. Flomax can also lead to persistent and painful erections called priapism. Priapism becomes dangerous when the erection lasts for 4 or more hours. Seek help immediately to prevent permanent sexual disability.
Mild Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Flomax can lead to such mild side effects as drowsiness, trouble sleeping, decreased libido (sex drive), sore throat or a runny and stuffy nose. Call your doctor if these symptoms persist or worsen.
Floppy Iris Syndrome
RxList.com states that Flomax can lead to a condition called floppy iris syndrome during cataract (clouding of the eye lens) surgery. Floppy iris syndrome is a complication that leads to instability of your iris (colored part of your eye) because Flomax relaxes your iris muscles.
Overdose
Get immediate medical attention if you overdose on Flomax. According to Drugs.com, overdose symptoms include a severe headache, cold skin, tachycardia (fast heart rate), lightheadedness and fainting.
Allergic Reaction
RxList.com states that Flomax may lead to such allergy symptoms as an itchy skin rash, angioedema (swelling of your face, throat or lips) and difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention in the unfortunate event you experience these symptoms.
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