Silodosin is a prescription medication which is used to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland in men. Some of these symptoms may include difficulty urinating, urinary urgency, or painful urination. Possible side effects of silodosin may include low blood pressure, stuffy nose, or diarrhea. In some cases, a painful erection may occur and can last for several hours. Any questions or concerns about the use of silodosin should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
Men who suffer from symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate gland may benefit from the use of silodosin. This medication works by relaxing the muscles of the prostate, thereby relieving uncomfortable or bothersome symptoms. Silodosin is available as an oral medication and is normally taken once per day with a meal. It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by a doctor and is most effective when taken around the same time each day.
Most men who take this drug do not experience any negative side effects, although any negative symptoms which develop after taking silodosin should be reported to a doctor for further medical evaluation. When side effects do occur, they are usually mild and do not prevent the patient from successfully taking the medication.
A runny or stuffy nose may develop when taking this drug and may sometimes be mistaken for other medical conditions such as hayfever or the common cold. Mild diarrhea can be a possible side effect of this medication, but if this symptom becomes severe enough to cause dehydration or if there is blood in the stool, a doctor should be contacted right away. In some cases, silodosin can cause a dramatic decrease in the amount of semen produced during an orgasm. If this symptom develops, or if the patient experiences a painful erection which lasts for several hours, a doctor should be consulted.
Rarely, a severe type of allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis may occur when taking silodosin, even if this medication has been well-tolerated in the past. Anaphylaxis symptoms may include facial swelling, chest pain, or difficulty breathing. This condition should be treated as a medical emergency, as permanent brain damage or even death may occur within a matter of minutes if immediate medical treatment is not obtained. Those who have ever suffered from this type of allergic reaction may need to carry an injectible medication known as epinephrine at all times in case the symptoms return at a later date.