From the FDA Drug Label
In an open-label, 12-month safety study, 87 patients were treated with tamsulosin hydrochloride. The most frequently reported adverse events (<5%) from the pooled data of both studies were urinary tract infection, vomiting, pyrexia, headache, nasopharyngitis, cough, pharyngitis, influenza, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation.
Constipation is a possible side effect of Flomax (tamsulosin), as reported in the drug label 1.
- Key points:
- Constipation was reported as an adverse event in a safety study.
- The frequency of constipation was less than 5%.
- Clinical decision: Patients taking Flomax should be monitored for constipation, especially if they have a history of gastrointestinal problems.
From the Research
Flomax (tamsulosin) can cause constipation as a side effect, though it's not among the most common side effects reported, with an incidence of approximately 1-5% of patients taking this medication. Flomax is an alpha-blocker primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by relaxing muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, which improves urinary flow. The constipation side effect occurs because alpha-blockers can affect smooth muscle function throughout the body, including the intestines, potentially slowing gut motility in some patients 2.
Management of Constipation
If you experience constipation while taking Flomax, several strategies may help alleviate this symptom:
- Staying well-hydrated
- Increasing dietary fiber
- Regular physical activity For persistent constipation, it is recommended to speak with your healthcare provider, who might recommend:
- Stool softeners
- Other interventions
- Possibly adjust your medication regimen
Importance of Medical Consultation
Never discontinue Flomax without medical consultation, as the benefits for treating BPH typically outweigh this potential side effect for most patients 3, 4. The efficacy and safety of alpha-1 blockers, including tamsulosin, have been extensively studied, and they are generally well-tolerated, with doxazosin and tamsulosin seeming to be more effective than other alpha-1 blockers 2.
Key Considerations
When considering the use of Flomax, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the possible side effects, including constipation. Given the relatively low incidence of constipation and the effectiveness of Flomax in treating BPH, the benefits of using Flomax often outweigh the risks for most patients 5, 6.