Can you take alfuzosin and sildenafil together? Yes, with care. Alfuzosin is an alpha-blocker, and the sildenafil label warns that taking the two together may cause low blood pressure with symptoms in a few susceptible men, most often within 4 hours of the sildenafil dose. So men should be stable on the alpha-blocker before starting sildenafil, and a 25 mg starting dose of sildenafil should be considered (EMA). The doctor who prescribes sildenafil needs to know you take alfuzosin.
Overview of Alfuzosin and Sildenafil
Alfuzosin and sildenafil are medications commonly used to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and erectile dysfunction (ED), respectively. Alfuzosin is an alpha-blocker that relaxes the muscles in the bladder and prostate, improving urine flow and reducing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Sildenafil, widely known by its brand name Viagra, is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor that enhances blood flow to the penis, facilitating erections.
Pilot Study Findings on Combination Therapy
Research conducted by SA Kaplan in 2007 and further supported by studies up to 2017, including one by Mİ Öztürk in 2012, indicates that the combination of alfuzosin 10 mg once daily (OD) and sildenafil 25 mg OD is safe and more effective than using either medication alone. These studies demonstrate an improvement in both voiding symptoms of LUTS suggestive of BPH and in sexual function without significant adverse effects.
Dosage and Efficacy
The recommended dosages from these studies are alfuzosin 10 mg OD and sildenafil 25 mg OD. However, Öztürk's 2012 study also explored the efficacy of combining alfuzosin with a higher dose of sildenafil (50 mg), indicating flexibility in dosing for increased efficacy in treating LUTS due to BPH and enhancing erectile function.
Safety and Drug Interactions
While the combination is generally considered safe, a moderate drug interaction between alfuzosin and sildenafil (Viagra) has been identified. Patients are advised against combining these medications with other alpha-blockers like doxazosin, prazosin, or tamsulosin, as well as medications for fungal infections and certain other drugs due to the risk of significant interactions.
Side effects may include dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, flushing, headache, and nasal congestion.
Who decides whether you can take both?
The doctor who prescribes sildenafil — with your other medicines and your heart health in front of them. Tell them you take alfuzosin, and ask what to do if you feel dizzy or faint after a dose.
The short answer
Alfuzosin and sildenafil can be taken together once you are stable on alfuzosin, with a 25 mg starting dose of sildenafil considered. Your doctor decides, and nitrates must never be combined with sildenafil. More blood-pressure combinations are covered in taking Viagra with amlodipine and other blood-pressure medicines.
