Rapaflo (Silodosin)

What is Rapaflo?

Rapaflo (silodosin) is an oral drug which belongs to the class of drugs known as alpha-adrenergic blockers.

What is Rapaflo used for?

Rapaflo is used in the treatment of a prostate gland condition known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as enlarged prostate. The drug reduces symptoms of BPH and improves urine flow. Rapaflo should not be used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

How does Rapaflo work?

Rapaflo is an alpha-adrenergic blocker. It inhibits the action of alpha-1-adrenoreceptors present in prostate, prostatic capsule, prostatic urethra, bladder neck, and bladder base and thereby relaxes the smooth muscles in these tissues. This helps improve weak urine stream and also causes a reduction in the symptoms of BPH.

How to use Rapaflo

Rapaflo should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Rapaflo is usually taken orally once a day, with food.

You dose may be changed regularly by your doctor for best results. But you should not change your dose on your own, without consulting your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse consult your doctor immediately.

Rapaflo warnings and precautions

Rapaflo is not administered to patients who are allergic to silodosin or are suffering from a severe kidney or liver disease. Patients taking drugs such as ritonavir, ketoconazole, or itraconazole are also advised against taking Rapaflo.

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your medical conditions, especially if you have a history of prostate cancer. There may be a dose adjustment in such a case.

If you are supposed to undergo a cataract surgery tell your surgeon beforehand about your use of Rapaflo. The dose may be stopped temporarily to avoid effects on pupils.

The drug causes dizziness or fainting, especially during initial use. This happens as the drug lowers blood pressure. Hence you should not stand up suddenly from a lying or sitting position. Avoid activities like driving which require complete alertness and clear vision. Also avoid consumption of alcohol as alcohol aggravates such side effects.

You blood pressure and prostate functions need to be monitored regularly while taking this drug.

The drug is not meant for use in children.

It should be kept in mind that the drug is not meant for women.

What do I do if I have missed a Rapaflo dose?

If you have missed a Rapaflo dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Rapaflo overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Rapaflo, seek medical attention right away.

Rapaflo interactions

Some drugs which may interact with Rapaflo are: heart or blood pressure medications, HIV/AIDS medications, erectile dysfunction medications, medicines used to prevent organ transplant rejection, antidepressants, antifungals, antibiotics, imatinib, quinidine, conivaptan, or isoniazid.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using Rapaflo.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Rapaflo side effects

Side effects from Rapaflo include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat, hives, redness of skin etc. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. Also, contact your doctor if you feel like passing out or if you experience painful penis erection that lasts for four hours or longer.

Headache, mild dizziness, diarrhea, nasal discharge or blockage, sore throat, abnormal ejaculation are some less serious side effects of Rapaflo.