Alfuzosin (brand name Uroxatral) is an alpha-blocker medication primarily prescribed to manage symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which causes uncomfortable lower urinary tract symptoms. Alfuzosin works by selectively blocking alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, causing the smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder neck to relax. This muscle relaxation reduces resistance to urine flow, improving the ability to urinate and alleviating symptoms like a weak stream or frequent urges.
Optimal Dosing Schedule
The extended-release 10 mg tablet of Alfuzosin must be taken once daily, immediately after the same meal every day. Consistency is paramount to ensure the drug is absorbed correctly and maintains a steady level in the bloodstream over 24 hours.
The standard dose is one 10 mg extended-release tablet, which must be swallowed whole. It must never be crushed, split, or chewed. Altering the tablet destroys the specialized extended-release coating designed to control the slow release of medication. This disruption can cause a sudden, rapid release of the entire dose, potentially leading to a significant drop in blood pressure.
Understanding Food Absorption
Taking Alfuzosin with food is mandatory due to the drug’s pharmacokinetic profile. Food intake significantly enhances the drug’s absorption (bioavailability). Studies show that absorption is reduced by approximately 50% when the drug is taken on an empty stomach.
Taking the medication with a substantial meal is required for effective treatment. A full meal ensures the maximum amount of the drug enters the system to relax the prostate muscles. The presence of food also facilitates a more gradual and sustained release from the extended-release matrix. Taking it without food risks sub-therapeutic levels, meaning the drug may not effectively control BPH symptoms.
Managing Postural Side Effects
Alfuzosin, like other alpha-blockers, can cause orthostatic or postural hypotension. This is a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing position, such as rising from sitting or lying down. Symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, occurring because the medication relaxes blood vessel muscles throughout the body.
Taking the tablet immediately after a meal helps mitigate this risk. Food provides slower, more consistent absorption, preventing the drug concentration from spiking too quickly and intensifying the blood pressure-lowering effect. Many providers recommend taking the dose after the evening meal, allowing the initial concentration peak to occur while the patient is resting.
To manage these effects, patients should rise slowly from a sitting or lying position. If lightheadedness or dizziness occurs, lying down immediately with the feet elevated helps restore blood flow to the brain. Caution is warranted, especially when first starting the treatment.
Practical Usage Guidelines
Maintaining a consistent daily routine is essential for Alfuzosin’s effectiveness. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, provided it is with food. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose entirely and return to the regular schedule. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this increases the risk of a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Patients should store the tablets at room temperature, away from excessive moisture and light. Before starting Alfuzosin, patients must inform their doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. This is important for other alpha-blockers, blood pressure medications, or drugs that inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme, as combining them can significantly increase Alfuzosin concentration and lead to serious side effects.