Afdura Tab

AFDURA TAB is a prescription medication manufactured by SUN PHARMACEUTICALS INDUSTRIES LTD, primarily used for the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in adult males. It is often available as an Extended Release (ER) tablet.

Name

• Brand Name: AFDURA TAB (also known as AFDURA TABLET ER)

Composition

• Active Ingredients: Alfuzosin (10 mg) and Dutasteride (0.5 mg).

Uses

AFDURA TAB is prescribed for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate gland. It helps alleviate associated symptoms such as:

• Difficulty initiating urination
• Weak urine stream
• Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying The medication works by relaxing the muscles around the bladder exit and prostate (Alfuzosin) and shrinking the prostate gland by reducing the production of dihydrotestosterone (Dutasteride). It does not treat prostate cancer.

Dosage and Administration

• AFDURA TAB is typically taken once daily, with food.
• Tablets should be swallowed whole; do not chew, crush, or break them.
• It is crucial to follow the doctor's prescribed dosage and continue the treatment even if symptoms improve, as full benefits may take several weeks or months to manifest.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness, headache, fatigue
• Orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure upon standing)
• Nasal congestion
• Decreased libido, ejaculation disorders (e.g., reduced volume), impotence
• Nausea, abdominal pain
• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Breast enlargement and tenderness in males Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions, liver problems, or heart issues.

Precautions

• Contraindications: AFDURA TAB should not be used by women (especially pregnant or breastfeeding), children, or patients with severe liver disease or a history of orthostatic hypotension.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as AFDURA TAB can interact with other alpha-blockers, blood pressure medicines, erectile dysfunction treatments, and potent CYP3A4 inhibitors.
• Warnings: Use with caution in patients with low blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart conditions. This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Pregnant partners should avoid contact with semen from a patient taking AFDURA TAB by using a condom, as Dutasteride can pass into semen.

Storage

Store AFDURA TAB at room temperature (between 15°C and 30°C), away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Here are frequently asked questions about AFDURA TAB by SUN PHARMACEUTICALS INDUSTRIES LTD:

What is AFDURA TAB used for?

AFDURA TAB is primarily used to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate gland, in adult men. This includes improving urinary flow, reducing frequent urination (especially at night), addressing difficulty initiating urination, and relieving the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.

How does AFDURA TAB work?

AFDURA TAB contains two active ingredients: Alfuzosin and Dutasteride. Alfuzosin is an alpha-blocker that works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, which improves urine flow. Dutasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor that reduces the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone contributing to prostate growth, thereby helping to shrink the enlarged prostate gland over time.

What is the usual dosage of AFDURA TAB?

AFDURA TAB is typically taken once daily, as prescribed by your doctor. It should be taken exactly as directed, usually with or after a meal, and swallowed whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking the tablet. It's important to take it at the same time each day for optimal effectiveness.

What are the possible side effects of AFDURA TAB?

Common side effects of AFDURA TAB may include dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, dry mouth, nasal congestion, ejaculation disorders (such as reduced semen volume or retrograde ejaculation), and decreased libido. Less common but serious side effects can include allergic reactions or heart problems. Orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing) is also a possible side effect.

Is AFDURA TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, AFDURA TAB is contraindicated for use in women, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Dutasteride, one of its components, can cause harm to a developing fetus. It is also not intended for use in breastfeeding mothers as it may pass into breast milk.

Can AFDURA TAB be taken with other medications?

AFDURA TAB can interact with other medications. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbal supplements, and vitamins you are taking to prevent potential drug interactions. Specific interactions can occur with other alpha-blockers, blood pressure medicines, erectile dysfunction treatments, antifungal medicines, and certain HIV medications.

What precautions should be taken while taking AFDURA TAB?

Before taking AFDURA TAB, inform your doctor if you have low blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, or a history of heart problems. Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided as it may increase the risk of dizziness and fainting. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery, especially when first starting the medication, due to potential dizziness or drowsiness. If you are scheduled for cataract or glaucoma surgery, inform your eye doctor about AFDURA TAB usage. It's also advised to use a condom during sexual activity, particularly if your partner is pregnant, as the medication can pass into semen.

What happens if a dose of AFDURA TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose of AFDURA TAB, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

How should AFDURA TAB be stored?

AFDURA TAB should be stored at room temperature (20-25°C), away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.