Flomaxtra XL

Flomaxtra Tablets

What is Flomaxtra XL used for?

Flomaxtra XL is used to treat the urinary retention symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate gland.

BPH is a non-cancerous condition where the prostate gland grows larger and puts pressure on the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. This can make it harder to pass urine normally.

Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty starting to urinate
• A weak or interrupted flow of urine
• Needing to urinate frequently, including during the night
• A feeling that the bladder hasn’t fully emptied

How does Flomaxtra XL work?

Flomaxtra XL contains tamsulosin hydrochloride, a member of the alpha1A-adrenoceptor blocker (alpha-blocker) class of medicines.

The prostate, bladder and urethra contain specialised cells with alpha1A receptors that cause the surrounding muscles to tighten. In men with BPH, this tightening restricts urine flow and causes the symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.

Tamsulosin blocks these receptors, relaxing the muscles in the prostate and urethra. This makes it easier to pass urine. The prolonged release formula means the medicine is released gradually over 24 hours, providing consistent relief throughout the day.

Who can use Flomaxtra tablets?

Flomaxtra XL is suitable for adult men with urinary symptoms caused by BPH. It isn’t suitable for women or anyone under 18.

Don’t use Flomaxtra XL if you:

• Are allergic to tamsulosin or any of the other ingredients
• Have a severe liver condition
• Have ever fainted or felt very dizzy when sitting or standing up suddenly

Speak to your doctor before use if you:

• Have kidney problems
• Are scheduled for eye surgery for cataracts or glaucoma
• Are taking other medicines that lower blood pressure or other alpha-blockers

How to Take Flomaxtra Tablets

The recommended dose for adults is one tablet once a day. Flomaxtra XL can be taken with or without food.

Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water. Don’t crush or chew it, as the prolonged release coating is what allows the medicine to work gradually over 24 hours.

Side Effects of Flomaxtra Tablets

Like all medicines, Flomaxtra XL can cause side effects, though not everyone gets them.

Common Side Effects (May Affect Up to 1 in 10 people)

• Dizziness
• Abnormal ejaculation (ejaculation disorder), such as retrograde ejaculation (semen entering the bladder instead of leaving the body) or reduced ejaculation volume. This is harmless.

Uncommon Side Effects (May Affect Up to 1 in 100 people)

• Headache or weakness
• Runny or blocked nose
• Dizziness when sitting or standing up
• Palpitations
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or constipation
• Rash, itching or localised swelling

Rare Side Effects (May Affect Up to 1 in 1,000 people)

• Fainting
• Swelling of the face, throat or tongue with breathing difficulties (seek medical attention immediately)

Very Rare Side Effects (May Affect Up to 1 in 10,000 people)

• A persistent painful erection unrelated to sexual activity (seek medical attention immediately)
• Severe skin reactions including blistering or peeling
• Irregular heart rhythm or difficulty breathing

Unknown Frequency

• Blurred or impaired vision
• Nosebleeds
• Dry mouth

If you experience any side effects not listed here, tell your doctor or pharmacist, or report them via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

Flomaxtra XL Ingredients

Active ingredient: tamsulosin hydrochloride 400 micrograms

Other ingredients: macrogol, magnesium stearate, butylhydroxytoluene (E321), hypromellose and yellow iron oxide (E172)

Warnings and Precautions

• Tablets can cause dizziness, particularly when sitting or standing up quickly. If you feel lightheaded, sit or lie down until it passes.
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you’re taking, including those for blood pressure, HIV, fungal infections or other alpha-blockers, as these can interact with Flomaxtra XL.
• Let your doctor or dentist know you’re taking Flomaxtra XL before any operation or dental procedure, as it can affect how anaesthetics work.
• Flomaxtra XL may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision. Don’t drive or operate machinery if you’re affected.