Renal

BPH Medications

Renal & Urinary

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Examples

tamsulosinalfuzosinfinasteridedutasteride

Prefix / Suffix: -zosin for alpha blockers; -steride for 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors

Physiology

Benign prostatic hyperplasia can compress the urethra and obstruct urine flow. Treatment either relaxes smooth muscle or shrinks hormone-sensitive prostate tissue over time.

Mechanism of Action

Alpha-1 blockers relax prostate and bladder neck smooth muscle. 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors reduce dihydrotestosterone, gradually shrinking the prostate.

Indications

  • Lower urinary tract symptoms from BPH
  • Urinary hesitancy, weak stream, nocturia
  • Prevention of urinary retention in enlarged prostate

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

  • Orthostatic hypotension
  • Dizziness
  • Ejaculatory dysfunction
  • Decreased libido
  • Breast tenderness with 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors

Contraindications

  • Severe hypotension with alpha blockers
  • Pregnancy exposure to crushed/broken finasteride or dutasteride tablets
  • Severe liver disease caution
  • Drug-specific allergy

Nursing Considerations

  • Teach patient to rise slowly and consider bedtime dosing for alpha blockers
  • Monitor urinary symptoms and blood pressure
  • Explain alpha blockers work faster while finasteride/dutasteride may take months
  • Warn that 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors can affect PSA interpretation
  • Report inability to urinate as urgent

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Disclaimer: PharmPal Nurse is for education only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose, treat, prescribe, or make patient-care decisions; always verify with current drug references, your instructor, facility policy, and a licensed provider. In emergencies, call local emergency services.