Flomax (Generic name : Tamsulosin) causes the blood vessels (veins and arteries) to relax and expand, so that blood passes through them more easily. This effect relaxes the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate.

• What are Flomax?
• What should my health care professional know before I take Flomax?
• What if I miss a dose?
• What drug(s) may interact with Flomax?
• What side effects may I notice from taking Flomax?
• Where can I keep my medicine?

What are Flomax?
Flomax (Tamsulosin) is used to treat enlargement of the prostate gland in men (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH). It is not for use in women. Flomax works by relaxing muscles in the prostate and bladder neck at the site of the obstruction. This improves urine flow and reduces BPH symptoms.
 
What should my health care professional know before I take Flomax?
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:
•kidney disease
•liver disease
•low blood pressure
•prostate cancer
•an unusual or allergic reaction to Flomax, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
 
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. If you stop taking Flomax for several days or more, restart treatment at one capsule a day, after consulting with your prescriber or health care professional.
 
What drug(s) may interact with Flomax?
•cimetidine
•medicines for high blood pressure
•warfarin
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your prescriber or health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
 
What side effects may I notice from taking Flomax?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
•difficulty breathing, shortness of breath
•prolonged painful erection of the penis (priapism)
More common:
•fainting spells
•visual problems
•weakness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•back pain
•diarrhea
•dizziness
•drowsiness
•sexual problems (ejaculation problems or decreased sex drive)
•headache
•insomnia
•nausea
•runny or stuffy nose
 
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature below 20 degrees-25 degrees C (68 degrees-77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.