Table of Contents
These drugs are generally referred to as either nonselective or selective alpha-blockers:
- Nonselective alpha-blockers relax all smooth muscles in the body that surround blood vessels.
- Selective alpha-blockers target more specifically the smooth muscles of the prostate, but they can also affect other areas of the body, such as the eyes.
Drugs in both categories are similar in effectiveness for reducing symptoms and improving urinary flow. There are some differences, however. Discuss with your doctor which type of alpha-blocker is best for your individual condition.
Brands. Nonselective alpha-blockers (also referred to as alpha-specific antagonists) for treatment of BPH include:
- Terazosin (Hytrin, generic)
- Doxazosin (Cardura, generic)
Selective alpha-blockers for treatment of BPH are:
- Tamsulosin (Flomax, generic)
- Alfusozin (Uroxatral)
- Silodosin (Rapaflo)
Side Effects. Alpha-blockers can reduce blood pressure, which may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. Orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing, can occur and increases the risk of falling. Taking the medication close to bedtime can help reduce these side effects. Because of the reduced blood pressure side effect, do not take phosphodiesterase inhibitors [such as sildenafil (Viagra)] at the same time, or at least without advice from a doctor.
Alpha-blockers can also cause headache, and stuffy or runny nose. Men may also experience a decreased ejaculate. (Erectile dysfunction is not a usual side effect of alpha-blockers, as it is with finasteride and dutasteride.)
Previous Section
Review Date: 07/20/2010
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine,
Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital.
Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M.,
Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
