Rapaflo is used to treat a benign prostatic hyperplasia, or an enlarged prostate, by relaxing the bladder and prostate muscles. Rapaflo's generic form, silodosin, alternative medications, and supplements are also available options to treat BPH.
Rapaflo, according to WebMD, alleviates pressure on the bladder and prostate, caused by an enlarged prostate, which creates a stronger flow of urine and decreases the frequency or urgency of urination.
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Rapaflo, an alpha blocker, may cause a sudden drop in blood pressure causing dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or ejaculation problems.
Should Rapaflo cause uncomfortable symptoms or is not effective, alternative medications are available,
according to eMedTV, such as generic 5-alpha reductase inhibitors dutasteride and finasteride, marketed as Avodart and Proscar. These medications work by inhibiting the chemical conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that contributes to BPH.
Generic alpha-1 blockers such as alfuzosin, doxazosin, terazosin, prazosin, and tamsulosin (more famously known as Uroxatral, Cardura, Hytrin, Minipress, and Flomax, respectively) can be alternative pharmacuetical options to Rapaflo if the drug is not right for you. But, do not take silodosin with any of those alpha-1 blockers,
warns Drugs.com, as Rapaflo has had "moderate" interactions with these medications.
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Healthline suggests that the following alternative natural remedies may treat an enlarged prostate:
- Saw palmetto has been a traditional herbal medicine to treat urinary symptoms.
- Pygeum, another ancient remedy, can help to reduce the frequency of urination throughout the day.
- Rye grass pollen extract can help decrease frequency and urgency of urination and assist with emptying the bladder.
- Stinging nettle in combination with pygeum or saw palmetto can reduce BPH symptoms.
- Beta-sitosterol is created by mixing a variety of plants that contain sitosterols and can help with strengthening urine flow.
However, Healthline says the American Urology Association does not recommend using herbal supplements to treat an enlarged prostate and recommends speaking with a medical professional first.
According to Mayo Clinic, another alternative to Rapaflo is a change in diet and lifestyle. Adding foods that are low in fat and nutrient-dense such as vegetables with vitamin C and zinc appear to reduce symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Also, an increase in physical activity, a decrease in belly fat, and occasional alcohol consumption may lower the risk of developing BPH.
Surgery and watchful waiting are also alternative options to Rapaflo and other medications used to treat an enlarged prostate, says eMedTV.
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