Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Tamsulosin (Flomax) and alfuzosin (Uroxatral) are both medications used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), but they have some differences. Tamsulosin is an alpha-1 blocker that you need to take 30 minutes after the same meal each day, while alfuzosin is an extended-release alpha-1 blocker that you take right after the same meal each day. Tamsulosin is available as a lower-cost generic, and alfuzosin also comes in a generic form. Both medications can cause dizziness and headaches, but tamsulosin is more likely to cause abnormal ejaculation. Alfuzosin should not be used by people with moderate to severe liver problems, while tamsulosin has a warning for people with sulfa allergies. Both medications can cause a drop in blood pressure when standing up, so you need to be careful when changing positions.
Tamsulosin
Alfuzosin er (Uroxatral)
Tamsulosin
Alfuzosin er (Uroxatral)
Summary of Flomax vs. Uroxatral
Summary for Alpha-1 blocker
Prescription only
Tamsulosin is an alpha-1 blocker used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as enlarged prostate. It works by relaxing the muscles in your prostate and bladder, making it easier to urinate. The medication comes as a capsule that you take once a day, usually 30 minutes after the same meal each day. Side effects include headache, dizziness, and abnormal ejaculation.
Summary for Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker
Prescription only
Alfuzosin ER (Uroxatral) is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in males. It's taken by mouth only once daily because it's an extended-release (ER) medication. Alfuzosin ER (Uroxatral) is available as generic and brand name tablets. Common side effects of this medication include dizziness and headaches.