Alfusin Tablet (15 Tab)

ALFUSIN TABLET (15 TAB) by CIPLA LTD.

Name

• Common Name: Alfuzosin
• Brand Name: ALFUSIN TABLET (by Cipla Ltd.), also known by the brand name Uroxatral in some regions

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Each tablet contains 10 mg of Alfuzosin Hydrochloride.
• Inactive Ingredients: Include colloidal silicon dioxide, ethylcellulose, hydrogenated castor oil, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, mannitol, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, and yellow ferric oxide.

Uses

ALFUSIN TABLET is primarily used in adult men to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). These symptoms can include difficulty urinating (hesitation, weak stream, incomplete bladder emptying), painful urination, and increased urinary frequency and urgency. It works as an alpha-blocker by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, which helps to improve urine flow. It does not shrink the prostate but helps manage the symptoms.

Dosage and Administration

ALFUSIN TABLET is an extended-release tablet typically taken once a day. It must be taken immediately after the same meal each day to ensure proper absorption, as its absorption is significantly lower on an empty stomach. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not split, chewed, or crushed. The recommended adult dosage is 10 mg once daily.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects: Dizziness, headache, tiredness/fatigue, runny or stuffy nose, pain, stomach pain, heartburn, constipation, nausea, and decreased sexual ability. Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if experienced): Rash, swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs; hoarseness, difficulty swallowing or breathing, chest pain (angina), fainting, or a prolonged and painful erection (priapism).

Precautions

• Orthostatic Hypotension: Alfuzosin can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, especially when getting up quickly from a sitting or lying position. This is more common when first starting the medication. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Liver/Kidney Impairment: Contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
• Drug Interactions: Do not take with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir) due to increased alfuzosin levels. Concomitant use with other alpha-blockers, blood pressure medications, or certain erectile dysfunction drugs (PDE-5 inhibitors) can increase the risk of low blood pressure.
• Eye Surgery: Inform your doctor if you are scheduled for eye surgery (e.g., cataract or glaucoma) as alfuzosin may cause Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS).
• Heart Conditions: Use with caution in patients with heart conditions, angina, or a history of QT prolongation.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

ALFUSIN TABLET (15 TAB) by CIPLA LTD. is an alpha-blocker medication primarily used to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men.

What is Alfusin Tablet used for?

Alfusin Tablet is used to relieve moderate to severe symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. These symptoms can include increased urinary frequency, urgency, a weak or interrupted urine stream, difficulty in starting urination, incomplete bladder emptying, and pain after urination or ejaculation. It can also help with acute urinary retention.

How does Alfusin Tablet work?

Alfusin Tablet contains Alfuzosin, which is an alpha-1-adrenergic receptor antagonist (an alpha-blocker). It works by selectively blocking alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in the prostate, bladder base, bladder neck, prostatic capsule, and prostatic urethra. This action causes the smooth muscles in these areas to relax, reducing the narrowing of the urethra and improving urine flow, thereby alleviating BPH symptoms.

What is the usual dosage of Alfusin Tablet?

The recommended dosage is one 10 mg ALFUSIN tablet once daily. It should be taken immediately after the same meal each day. The tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed or crushed.

What are the possible side effects of Alfusin Tablet?

Common side effects of Alfusin Tablet include dizziness, headache, nausea, stomach pain, weakness, tiredness, dry mouth, diarrhea, and nasal congestion. Some patients may experience postural hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness), fainting (syncope), or palpitations. Rarely, a persistent and painful erection (priapism) can occur, which requires immediate medical attention.

Is Alfusin Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, Alfusin Tablet is not recommended for use in women, especially those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it is only indicated for use in men to manage symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Can Alfusin Tablet be taken with other medications?

Alfusin Tablet can interact with other medications. It should not be taken with other alpha-blockers due to an increased risk of side effects. Concomitant use with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and ritonavir) is contraindicated as it can increase alfuzosin blood levels. Caution is also advised when taken with blood pressure medications and nitrates, as it may increase the risk of hypotension. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

What precautions should be taken when taking Alfusin Tablet?

Patients should be aware of the possibility of dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting, especially when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position. It's recommended to rise slowly. Alcohol consumption should be avoided or limited as it can increase dizziness. Patients undergoing cataract or glaucoma eye surgery should inform their eye doctor about taking Alfusin Tablet, as it may lead to a condition called Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS). Alfusin is contraindicated in patients with severe liver problems and should be used with caution in patients with kidney problems. Before starting Alfusin, prostate cancer should be ruled out, as both conditions can have similar symptoms.

What happens if a dose of Alfusin Tablet is missed?

If a dose is missed, 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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should Alfusin Tablet be stored?

Alfusin Tablet should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight, and out of reach of children. Store the medicine at room temperature, typically between 15°C and 30°C.