Flomax Alternatives (Cont.)

 
Medication Alternatives to Flomax
There are basically two types of medicines used to treat BPH:
 
  • 5-alpha reductase inhibitors: These medicines block the formation of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), helping to shrink the prostate. These medications may take as long as six months to see results. There are currently two of these medications available:
Common side effects of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors include a decreased libido (sex drive), erectile dysfunction (also known as impotence or ED), and a decreased ejaculate volume.
  • Alpha-1 blockers (alpha blockers for short): These medicines help to relax the muscles near the prostate. They have no effect on the size of the prostate, but they can work very quickly. Flomax is a type of alpha blocker. Other medicines in this class that are considered Flomax alternatives for the treatment of BPH include:
o Terazosin (Hytrin®)
o Prazosin (Minipress®)
Because some alpha-1 blockers are also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), they may be especially helpful for men with both BPH and high blood pressure. Common side effects of alpha-1 blockers include dizziness, fatigue, and headache.

Flomax Alternative: A Summary

There are several alternatives to Flomax, including other medications, watchful waiting, and surgery. If Flomax is not working for you or if it is causing bothersome side effects, ask your healthcare provider about trying a Flomax alternative.
 
(You can also read more about the treatment options for an enlarged prostate by clicking on Enlarged Prostate Treatment.)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;