Rapaflo for Prostate: Benefits and Risks You Need to Know

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate gland, can cause difficulties with urination for men. To relieve these symptoms, your doctor may prescribe a drug called Rapaflo.

Rapaflo is the brand name of the generic drug called silodosin. Like many other drugs used to treat symptoms of BPH, it belongs to a group of drugs called alpha blockers.

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Rapaflo works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate gland and bladder so urine can pass freely. Unlike many other alpha blockers, Rapaflo is not used in the treatment of high blood pressure, says WebMD. Instead, it is specifically marketed for men with BPH.

The prostate is a small gland that sits just below the bladder. For men with BPH, as the prostate gets larger, it can press on the tube that drains urine from the bladder. This increased pressure can cause men to experience a weak urine stream, a need to urinate frequently, and an inability to completely empty the bladder.

WebMD explains that Rapaflo does not shrink an enlarged prostate gland; it merely relieves the urination difficulties associated with it. Further treatment of BPH, often surgery, may still be appropriate if the condition continues to progress.

Everyday Health lists the following most common side effects of Rapaflo:

• Mild dizziness
• Headache
• Difficulty with ejaculation
• Low blood pressure
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose

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Mayo Clinic advises patients taking Rapaflo to exercise caution before driving a car, operating machinery, or getting up from sitting or lying down because dizziness can occur.

According to WebMD, some rare but serious side effects can occur with Rapaflo. Patients that experience a severe allergic reaction characterized by unexplained rash, itching, or swelling, or trouble breathing should contact their doctor right away. Also, Rapaflo should be discontinued immediately if the patient experiences a painful erection that lasts for greater than four hours.

As with any prescription drug, talk with your physician about other medicines you are taking to avoid potential adverse drug interactions.

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