Alfuzosin Hydrochloride is used to manage the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), including lower urinary tract symptoms such as frequent urination, nighttime urination (nocturia), incomplete bladder emptying, and difficulty starting urination.

Alfuzosin Hydrochloride works as a selective blocker of post-synaptic alpha-1 adrenergic receptors located in the prostate, bladder base, bladder neck, and urethra. By relaxing the smooth muscles in these areas, it reduces urinary resistance and improves urine flow. It also lowers urethral pressure and reduces excessive sympathetic activity in the urinary tract. Its selective action on prostatic receptors helps relieve BPH symptoms and improves urinary function while minimizing effects on blood pressure.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): The recommended dose is 10 mg to be taken once daily after a meal.

Acute urinary retention (AUR): In patients 65 years and older, 10 mg daily after a meal to be taken from the first day of catheterisation. The treatment should be administered for 3–4 days, 2–3 days during catheterisation and 1 day after its removal. This indication no benefit has been established in patients under 65 years of age or if treatment is extended beyond 4 days.

Administration

Alfuzosin Hydrochloride tablet should be swallowed whole.

Concurrent use of Alfuzosin with other alpha-1 blockers is contraindicated. Caution is required when combining it with antihypertensive agents, nitrates, or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and ritonavir, as these may increase Alfuzosin levels. Studies have shown that ketoconazole can significantly raise the maximum concentration and overall exposure of Alfuzosin.

Use of general anesthetics in patients taking Alfuzosin may lead to severe hypotension; therefore, it is recommended to discontinue the medication at least 24 hours before surgery. No significant pharmacodynamic or pharmacokinetic interactions have been observed with drugs such as warfarin, digoxin, hydrochlorothiazide, or atenolol.

As with other alpha-1 blockers, Alfuzosin may cause postural hypotension, especially in patients taking antihypertensive drugs or nitrates. Symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or sweating may appear within a few hours after dosing. Patients should lie down until symptoms resolve. These effects are usually temporary and do not require stopping treatment, but patients should be informed about this possibility. Caution is required in patients with heart failure or those who have previously experienced strong hypotensive reactions with other alpha-blockers. Treatment should be started gradually in sensitive individuals. Careful monitoring is necessary when used alongside antihypertensive medications, particularly at the beginning of therapy. Patients with congenital or acquired QT prolongation, or those taking drugs that prolong the QT interval, should be evaluated before and during treatment. In patients with coronary artery disease, ongoing treatment for angina should be maintained, and Alfuzosin should be discontinued if angina worsens. Alfuzosin is not recommended in severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min). The tablet should be swallowed whole; crushing, chewing, or breaking it may affect drug release and increase the risk of side effects. During cataract surgery, a condition known as Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) may occur in patients using or previously treated with alpha-1 blockers. Therefore, eye surgeons should be informed before surgery. The formulation may contain hydrogenated castor oil, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as stomach upset or diarrhea.

Adverse effects may vary in frequency:

• Very common/Common: dizziness, headache, low blood pressure (hypotension), abdominal discomfort, nausea, fatigue
• Uncommon: rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), palpitations, fainting, diarrhea, vomiting, dry mouth, skin rash, itching
• Rare: severe drop in blood pressure, angina worsening, liver enzyme abnormalities, allergic reactions including urticaria and angioedema
• Very rare: blood disorders such as thrombocytopenia or neutropenia, liver injury, severe skin reactions
• Others: chest pain, edema, flushing, nasal congestion, priapism

This medication is not intended for use in women; therefore, pregnancy and lactation considerations are not applicable.

Use of general anesthesia in patients taking Alfuzosin may lead to significant hypotension. It is recommended to discontinue the drug at least 24 hours before surgery. If angina symptoms develop or worsen, treatment should be stopped.

The safety and effectiveness of Alfuzosin have not been established in children aged 2 to 16 years; therefore, it is not recommended for pediatric use.

In case of overdose, patients should be placed in a lying position and treated for hypotension. Severe cases may require the use of vasoconstrictor agents.

Used in BPH, urinary retention, and urinary incontinence.

Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light.