Tamsulosin (Flomax) causing/increasing AF?

[KootenayTrails]

I’ve been taking Tamsulosin for almost 5 yrs ago. AF starts just this February. Just read it’s side effects more closely, and noticed one NIH paper and another source, mentioned causing AF as a rare side effect. Have stopped it, and will look for an alternative if need be. Anyone else noticed any correlation?

[Ppiman]

I was told it is the safest of the alpha blockers because it affects the blood pressure the least, so I very much doubt it has caused your AF.

As a treatment for urinary symptoms linked to an enlarged prostate (LUTS), it wasn't effective enough for me at standard dosage and the higher dosage, which did work and which is commonly prescribed in the US, isn't allowed in the UK for some reason so I ended up on alfuzosin SR, which works moderately well, but variably.

I don't know how you could just stop the drug as won't you risk bringing on urinary retention? Did your doctor suggest it?

Steve

[KootenayTrails in reply to Ppiman]

Checked with Rhythm Clinic Pharmacist (Canada) first before stopping it. So far, managing without it. Having an AFib episode every 2nd day has been awful, so figured it was worth the risk (Prostrate has shrunk back to normal too per Urologist). Interestingly, I also no longer have a continuously stuffed nose, which I’ve had for years. Also listed as a rare side effect.

[Ppiman in reply to KootenayTrails]

Yes - the stuffy nose is a well-known side effect of the alpha-blockers, with doxazosin being the worst offender. I live with it, and it is hard going at nighttime on top of the peeing problem and general poor sleep!

Steve

[KootenayTrails in reply to Ppiman]

Yeah that’s rough!

[Alan1947]

I started on Tamsulosin in 2007 following prostrate cancer radiotherapy. I’ve used it daily ever since and would not want to stop it.

I had AF from 2015 but it never occurred to me there was any connection. Two ablations, the second in 2020, since when (touch wood) I’ve been ok.