Tamsulosin is a prescription medication used to treat urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. It improves urine flow and reduces symptoms such as difficulty starting urination and weak stream.

BPH is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. As the prostate grows, it can press on the urethra and restrict urine flow, leading to urinary symptoms that commonly affect men over age 50.

Tamsulosin is an alpha-1 blocker. It relaxes smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder neck, allowing urine to flow more easily and reducing urinary obstruction.

It helps relieve weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, frequent urination, urgency, nighttime urination, dribbling, and the feeling that the bladder is not fully empty.

Clinical studies show that tamsulosin significantly improves urinary flow rate and reduces symptom scores in most men with moderate to severe BPH. Individual response may vary.

Many patients notice improvement within a few days, although full benefit may take 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use.

The typical starting dose is 0.4 mg once daily. If symptoms do not improve, a healthcare provider may increase the dose to 0.8 mg daily.

If remembered the same day, take the missed dose. If a full day has passed, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not double the dose.

Yes. Tamsulosin (Flomax) is only available with a prescription. A licensed healthcare provider must evaluate your symptoms and medical history to decide if it’s appropriate for you.

Yes. You can receive a Tamsulosin (Flomax) prescription after completing a virtual consultation with a licensed Mount Sinai Urology CME provider. If treatment is appropriate, your provider will issue a prescription as part of your care plan.

No. Tamsulosin (Flomax) is not sold over the counter. You’ll need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional.

Yes. Mount Sinai Urology CME specialists can provide new prescriptions or refills after an online consultation. If Tamsulosin (Flomax) is right for you, your medication will be shipped directly to your home in discreet packaging.

It can be used long term. If stopped, urinary symptoms often return. Treatment duration depends on symptom severity and response.

No. It manages symptoms but does not cure BPH, which is a progressive age-related condition.

No. Tamsulosin does not reduce prostate size. It improves symptoms by relaxing muscles. Other medications are required if prostate shrinkage is needed.

It is usually taken once daily, about 30 minutes after the same meal each day. Capsules should be swallowed whole without crushing or chewing.

Common side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, nasal congestion, and changes in ejaculation. Most are mild and improve over time.

Yes. It may cause a drop in blood pressure, especially when standing up quickly. This can lead to dizziness or fainting.

Orthostatic hypotension is a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up from sitting or lying down, causing dizziness or fainting.

It may cause changes in ejaculation, such as reduced semen release or retrograde ejaculation. Erectile function is usually not affected.

It is primarily prescribed for men with BPH, but it may sometimes be used off-label for certain urinary conditions in women or to help pass kidney stones.

Yes. It may be prescribed to help pass small kidney stones by relaxing muscles in the urinary tract.

Yes. It is sometimes combined with medications that shrink the prostate for improved long-term symptom control.

People with allergies to the medication, severe liver problems, or a history of significant low blood pressure should discuss risks carefully with their doctor.

Yes. It can interact with other alpha blockers, blood pressure medications, certain antibiotics or antifungals, and erectile dysfunction drugs.

Patients should inform their eye surgeon before cataract or glaucoma surgery, as tamsulosin can affect the iris during the procedure. Do not stop the medication unless instructed.

Seek medical care if fainting, severe dizziness, chest pain, a painful prolonged erection, or signs of an allergic reaction occur.