Rapaflo (Silodosin)

Rapaflo (Silodosin) Medication Information

Uses

Rapaflo is a prescription medication used to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is the medical term for enlargement of the prostate.  The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system.  It functions to make fluid that becomes part of semen. The prostate also contains muscle tissue which helps propel semen through the penis during ejaculation.  In some men, the prostate gland becomes enlarged and causes problems with urination.

Symptoms of BPH begin when the enlarged prostate gland gets in the way of urine flow. BPH symptoms may include:

• feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• weak or delayed urinary stream
• sudden urges to urinate
• having to urinate two or more times overnight
• incontinence (leaking urine)
• straining while urinating
• painful urination
• blood in the urine

Rapaflo contains the active ingredient silodosin, which relaxes the muscles of the prostate gland and bladder to help relieve BPH symptoms.

Dosage

Rapaflo comes as an oral capsule available in two strengths: 4 milligrams (mg) and 8 mg. 

The usual dosage of Rapaflo is one capsule taken once daily with a meal. Be sure to follow your healthcare provider’s directions exactly.

Precautions

Rapaflo may not be a safe treatment option for everyone with BPH.  Rapaflo should be used carefully in people with the following medical conditions or history:

• Low blood pressure
• Moderate to severe kidney disease
• Severe liver disease
• Rapaflo is not for use in females
• Rapaflo is not a treatment for high blood pressure
• Previous allergic reaction to silodosin or any other ingredients of Rapaflo

Side Effects

Rapaflo, like most medications, may cause mild or serious side effects.  For most people, the side effects are mild. 

The most common side effects of Rapaflo include: 

• Dizziness 
• Diarrhea 
• Orthostatic hypotension (dizziness after standing or sitting up)
• Headache
• Stuffy nose
• Retrograde ejaculation (when semen moves backward into the bladder instead of emerging through the penis during ejaculation)

Other side effects are possible.  If any side effects become severe or don’t go away, talk to your healthcare provider.

Interactions

Tell your doctors and pharmacist about all of your medications, including over-the-counter and herbal products, before taking them with Rapaflo. Some medications can cause harmful drug interactions with Silodosin, such as:

• Clarithromycin
• Itraconazole
• Ketoconazole
• Ritonavir

Taking Rapaflo with certain medications is usually not recommended but may be necessary for some situations. If so, your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits with you. Some examples include:

• Cyclosporine
• Diltiazem
• Verapamil 

Storage

Rapaflo should be stored at room temperature (77°F or 25ºC) in a sealed container, protected from heat, light, and moisture.

Pharmacists Tips

• Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice with Rapaflo, which could increase your risk of side effects.
• Dizziness or fainting can occur after taking Rapaflo. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you first see how Rapaflo affects you.
• Make sure to tell your eye doctor that you take Rapaflo if you’re considering cataract surgery as serious eye problems can occur.

Rapaflo FAQs

What if I miss a dose of Rapaflo?

If you miss your dose, take it as soon as possible. But if it is almost time for your next dose, do not take a double dose to catch up.

What should I do if I have trouble swallowing Rapaflo capsules?

You can carefully open the capsule and sprinkle the powder on a tablespoonful of applesauce. Swallow the applesauce immediately, without chewing it, then drink an 8-ounce glass of water. 

Is Rapaflo a cure for BPH?

No, but it can reduce or eliminate your BPH symptoms. Rapaflo works by relaxing the muscles of the prostate and bladder.  Silodosin does not shrink the prostate, but it is effective at relieving some urinary symptoms.

Related Drugs

• Alfuzosin
• Doxazosin
• Prazosin
• Terazosin
• Tamsulosin

References

1. Rapaflo Prescribing Information. Madison, NJ: Allergan USA, Inc.; 2020.

https://media.allergan.com/actavis/actavis/media/allergan-pdf-documents/product-prescribing/RAPAFLO-PLR-06-2017-(003).pdf, Accessed February 12, 2021.

      2.  Ng M, Baradhi KM. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing; 2020 Jan. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558920/, Accessed February 12, 2021.