Rapaflo is a prescription medicine approved for relieving the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. This page on the eMedTV Web site describes how the drug works, explains when and how to take it, and lists some of its potential side effects.
As this eMedTV article explains, Rapaflo is used for treating the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate). This resource explains how Rapaflo works, explores possible off-label uses, and discusses the use of this drug in children.
Common Rapaflo side effects include nasal congestion, dizziness, and retrograde ejaculation. This page from the eMedTV library lists other possible side effects of the medication and explains which problems may require immediate medical attention.
There is only one standard Rapaflo dosage, regardless of your age or weight. As this eMedTV Web page explains, the recommended starting dose is 8 mg once daily with a meal. In men with moderate kidney problems, a lower dosage may be recommended.
If imatinib, quinidine, or certain other drugs are taken with Rapaflo, interactions may occur. This eMedTV page lists other medicines that may interfere with Rapaflo and describes the potential risks associated with these interactions.
You should not take Rapaflo if you have severe liver or kidney disease. This eMedTV article offers more information on who should not use Rapaflo. Warnings and precautions on what side effects may occur with the drug are also listed on this page.
For those who do not respond well to Rapaflo (silodosin), alternatives to the medication are available. As this eMedTV article explains, Rapaflo alternatives for treating an enlarged prostate may include other drugs, "watchful waiting," and surgery.
An overdose of Rapaflo (silodosin) is likely to cause any of the usual side effects of the drug. As this eMedTV page explains, an overdose of this drug is also likely to cause low blood pressure, which can be very dangerous and may affect the heart rate.
Rapaflo (silodosin) is not available in generic form at this time. As this article from the eMedTV archives explains, the earliest predictable date that a generic Rapaflo product could become available is October 2013, when the drug's patent expires.
Rapaflo (silodosin) is not approved for pregnant women. As this eMedTV page explains, in studies on Rapaflo and pregnancy, no problems occurred when the drug was given to pregnant animals. However, this drug is not approved for any use in women.
At this time, it is not known whether Rapaflo (silodosin) passes through breast milk. As this eMedTV segment explains, no studies have been conducted on Rapaflo and breastfeeding, since the medication is not meant to be used by women.
