Homechevron_rightDrugschevron_rightTamsulosin (Flomax) Prices
Generic Flomax
Used for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Used for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Tamsulosin (Flomax) is a commonly prescribed oral medication used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. For it to work properly, you have to take it 30 minutes after the same meal each day. Also, since tamsulosin (Flomax) has a lot of interactions, you'll need to check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before you start any new medications.
Reviewed by:
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on January 8, 2023
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What is Tamsulosin (Flomax)?
02:25
Featuring Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD | Reviewed by Daisy Chau, PharmD, Preeti Parikh, MD
What is Tamsulosin (Flomax) used for?
Enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH)
How Tamsulosin (Flomax) works
Tamsulosin (Flomax) is an alpha-1 blocker. It blocks a specific type of receptor found in the prostate. By blocking these receptors, the medication works by relaxing the muscles in your prostate and bladder, which relieves symptoms of BPH by making it easier to urinate.
info
Are you looking for information on Jalyn (dutasteride / tamsulosin) instead?
When does Tamsulosin (Flomax) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect
Drug Facts
Common BrandsFlomax
Drug ClassAlpha-1 blocker
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$57.46
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What are the side effects of Tamsulosin (Flomax)?
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
Other Side Effects
Serious Side Effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
When do Tamsulosin (Flomax) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Headaches
Dizziness
Runny or stuffy nose
ejacul*tion problems
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.
Source:DailyMed
More on Tamsulosin (Flomax) side effects
The following side effects have also been reported
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
More common
Cough or hoarseness
fever or chills
lower back or side pain
painful or difficult urination
Less common
Chest pain
Rare
Dizziness or lightheadedness
dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
fainting
feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
painful or prolonged erection of the penis
sensation of spinning
Incidence not known
Blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
blurred vision
confusion
diarrhea
difficult or labored breathing
fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
itching
joint or muscle pain
large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
red skin lesions, often with a purple center
red, irritated eyes
sore throat
sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips
sweating
tightness of the chest
unusual tiredness or weakness
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
More common
Abnormal ejacul*tion
back pain
body aches or pain
congestion
headache
lack or loss of strength
sneezing
stuffy or runny nose
tender, swollen glands in the neck
trouble swallowing
voice changes
Less common
Decreased interest in sexual intercourse
decreased sexual drive or performance
drowsiness
inability to have or keep an erection
increased cough
loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
nausea
pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
tooth disorder
trouble sleeping
Incidence not known
Constipation
hives or welts, skin rash
redness of the skin
vomiting
Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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Pros and cons of Tamsulosin (Flomax)
Pros
Considered a first-choice treatment option for BPH
Oral medication that you only have to take once a day
Available as a lower-cost generic
Less likely to cause a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, compared to similar medications
Cons
Only treats the symptoms of an enlarged prostate rather than affect the growth of the prostate
Needs to be taken at the same time every day 30 minutes after a meal
Can have negative side effects on your sexual health
Though rare, maybe not the best option for people with a sulfa allergy
Pharmacist tips for Tamsulosin (Flomax)
Take tamsulosin (Flomax) 30 minutes after the same meal every day. This will help your body absorb the proper amount of medication.
Swallow tamsulosin (Flomax) capsules whole. Don't crush, chew, or open tamsulosin (Flomax) capsules because it will affect how the medication works.
If you accidentally miss your dose of tamsulosin (Flomax), take it as soon as you remember that day. If it's been a whole day, just take your next dose on your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time.
If for some reason you stop taking tamsulosin (Flomax) for several days in a row, talk with your provider before you start taking it again since your dose might be different.
Tamsulosin (Flomax) can cause dizziness and low blood pressure, especially when you get up too quickly. Slowly move from a lying down position to a sitting position, and then stand up slowly to allow your body to adjust to possible changes in blood pressure.
Tamsulosin (Flomax) interacts with a lot of commonly used medications. Make sure to tell your provider about all the medications you're taking before starting tamsulosin (Flomax) to make sure it's safe.
Frequently asked questions about Tamsulosin (Flomax)
Is tamsulosin (Flomax) a first-choice treatment option for BPH?
expand_more
Yes, according to the 2021 treatment guidelines written by the American Urological Association, tamsulosin (Flomax) is one of the first-choice medications for the treatment of moderate to severe BPH.
When should I take tamsulosin (Flomax)?
expand_more
You should take tamsulosin (Flomax) 30 minutes after the same meal every day to ensure that your body absorbs the right amount of medication. Taking it on an empty stomach can cause your body to absorb too much of the medication, which raises your risk of side effects.
Can I drink alcohol while I'm taking tamsulosin (Flomax)?
expand_more
It's best not to. Drinking alcohol while taking tamsulosin (Flomax) can further raise the risk of low blood pressure when changing body positions (e.g., from sitting to standing). This is especially important after the first dose or each time your dose is changed.
Will I still be able to have sex while taking tamsulosin (Flomax)?
expand_more
Yes, you can still have sex while on tamsulosin (Flomax). Tamsulosin (Flomax) might cause abnormal ejacul*tion, lower sex drive, and rarely, priapism (an erection that lasts longer than 4 hours). But, some studies have shown tamsulosin (Flomax) might not affect your sexual health at all. If you notice any changes to your sexual health after starting tamsulosin (Flomax), contact your provider.
What's the difference between tamsulosin (Flomax) and other medications used to treat BPH?
expand_more
There are many available medications used to treat BPH. Some of them like dutasteride (Avodart) and finasteride (Proscar) work preventing the prostate from getting bigger. On the other hand, tamsulosin (Flomax) and other alpha-1 blockers work by relaxing muscles in the prostate and bladder, which improves urinary symptoms. Some people may need to take a combination of different BPH medications for the most benefit. Talk to your provider about which treatment would be best for you.
Can tamsulosin (Flomax) be used in women too?
expand_more
Possibly. At this time tamsulosin (Flomax) is only FDA approved for use in men with BPH. But there have been studies showing it might be helpful in women with urination problems by targeting muscles in the bladder. It's best to talk to your provider if you have questions about whether or not tamsulosin (Flomax) is appropriate for you.
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What are the risks and warnings for Tamsulosin (Flomax)?
Tamsulosin (Flomax) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing
Risk factors: Moving too quickly from sitting down to standing up | Not enough fluid in your body (dehydration) | Taking other medications that lower blood pressure | Heart failure | Drinking alcohol
When you first start to take tamsulosin (Flomax) or when your dose is raised, you can experience a sudden drop in blood pressure when you get up from a sitting or lying down position. This is called orthostatic hypotension. Always make sure to move slowly from a lying down position to a sitting position, and then stand up slowly to allow your body to adjust to possible changes in blood pressure. Symptoms include feeling lightheaded or dizzy after standing up, blurry vision, fainting, nausea, and confusion. Your body should adjust to the medication after the first few days, but if you continue to have these symptoms tell your healthcare provider. If you fall and hit your head, get medical help right away.
Prolonged and painful erection
Although rare, tamsulosin (Flomax) can cause prolonged and painful erections, which sometimes requires surgery to treat. If you develop a prolonged erection that lasts longer than 4 hours, stop taking tamsulosin (Flomax) and get medical attention right away.
Eye problems
Risk factors: Planned cataract or glaucoma surgery
Tamsulosin (Flomax) can cause an eye problem called floppy iris syndrome (FIS), which can happen during cataract or glaucoma surgery. FIS can raise your risk of having eye problems during and after cataract surgery and it can occur even if you've stopped taking tamsulosin (Flomax). Let your eye provider know if you're taking tamsulosin (Flomax) because they might have you stop the medication or change their surgical technique to lower your risk for FIS.
Severe allergic reactions
Risk factors: Sulfa allergy
Some people have experienced a severe allergic reaction to tamsulosin (Flomax), especially those allergic to sulfa. These reactions can be life-threatening and include facial swelling, hives, and anaphylaxis (e.g., closing of the throat). If you notice dizziness, fast heartbeat, a choking sensation, difficulty breathing, swelling around your eyes, swelling of the lips or tongue, or any signs of a severe skin reaction after taking tamsulosin (Flomax), get medical attention right away.
Tamsulosin (Flomax) dosage forms
The average cost for 30 capsules of 0.4mg of Tamsulosin (Flomax) is $10.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 82.59% off the average retail price of $57.46.
Capsule
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.4mg | 30 capsules | $10.00 | $0.33 |
Typical dosing for Tamsulosin (Flomax)
The typical starting dose is 0.4 mg by mouth once a day, 30 minutes after the same meal each day. The maximum daily dose is 0.8 mg once a day.
More on Tamsulosin (Flomax) dosage forms
Interactions between Tamsulosin (Flomax) and other drugs
Tamsulosin (Flomax) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Tamsulosin (Flomax). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.
More on Tamsulosin (Flomax) interactions
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.
- Boceprevir
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.
- Alfuzosin
- Bunazosin
- Ceritinib
- Clarithromycin
- Cobicistat
- Conivaptan
- Dapiprazole
- Doxazosin
- Idelalisib
- Indinavir
- Itraconazole
- Ketoconazole
- Lopinavir
- Moxisylyte
- Nefazodone
- Nelfinavir
- Paroxetine
- Phenoxybenzamine
- Phentolamine
- Posaconazole
- Prazosin
- Ritonavir
- Saquinavir
- Silodosin
- Tadalafil
- Telaprevir
- Telithromycin
- Terazosin
- Tolazoline
- Trimazosin
- Urapidil
- Voriconazole
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.
- Acebutolol
- Alprenolol
- Atenolol
- Avanafil
- Betaxolol
- Bevantolol
- Bisoprolol
- Bucindolol
- Carteolol
- Carvedilol
- Celiprolol
- Cimetidine
- Dilevalol
- Esmolol
- Labetalol
- Levobunolol
- Mepindolol
- Metipranolol
- Metoprolol
- Nadolol
- Nebivolol
- Oxprenolol
- Penbutolol
- Pindolol
- Propranolol
- Sildenafil
- Sotalol
- Talinolol
- Tertatolol
- Timolol
- Vardenafil
How much does Tamsulosin (Flomax) cost?
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Flomax (brand)
Tamsulosin (Flomax) (generic)
What are alternatives to Tamsulosin (Flomax)?
There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Tamsulosin (Flomax). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
Tamsulosin (Flomax)
Used for:
Enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH)
$10.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
Alfuzosin ER (Uroxatral)
Used for:
Signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
$6.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
Doxazosin (Cardura)
Used for:
Enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH)
High blood pressure - immediate-release tablet only
$15.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
What is the latest news about Tamsulosin (Flomax)?
Tamsulosin (Flomax) images
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References
starsBest studies we found
Ascend Laboratories, LLC. (2022). TAMSULOSIN HYDROCHLORIDE capsule [package insert]. DailyMed.
Chapple, C. R. (2005). A comparison of varying α-blockers and other pharmacotherapy options for lower urinary tract symptoms. Reviews in Urology.
Flach, A. J. (2009). Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome: Pathophysiology, prevention, and treatment. Transactions of the American Ophthalmological Society.
View All References (7)
expand_more
Höfner, K., et al. (1999). Tamsulosin 0.4 mg once daily: Effect on sexual function in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic obstruction. European Urology.
Kaplan, S. A. (2009). Side effects of α-blocker use: Retrograde ejacul*tion. Reviews in Urology.
Lerner, L. B., et al. (2021). Management of lower urinary tract symptoms attributed to benign prostatic hyperplasia. The Journal of Urology.
MedlinePlus. (2019). Orthostatic hypotension.
Paśko, P., et al. (2016). Interactions between medications employed in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia and food − A short review. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy.
Schwinn, D. A., et al. (2009). α1-adrenoceptor subtypes and lower urinary tract symptoms. International Journal of Urology: Official Journal of the Japanese Urological Association.
Zhang, H. L., et al. (2017). Tamsulosin for treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms in women: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Impotence Research.
GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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