As of March 2015, the branded Hytrin product is no longer offered, however generic alternatives may be available, such as terazosin.
Terazosin belongs to the anti-hypertensives class of medicines. It also helps the muscles of the prostate and the bladder relax to promote the flow of urine in men with MS.
Bladder disturbances are common in people with MS and usually consist of urgency, frequency, incomplete emptying, and occasional incontinence. Once a urinary tract infection is ruled out, therapies such as terazosin can be prescribed to address bladder dysfunction.
Terazosin is an alpha-1A-adrenoceptor blocker that selectively blocks nervous stimulation of the receptor resulting in relaxation of the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck in order to improve the urine flow. It also causes vasodilation resulting in hypotension by inhibiting alpha-1A-adrenoceptors.
Terazosin capsules should be taken initially by mouth 1 mg a day, with a maintenance dosage up to 5 mg twice a day. It is usually taken with or without food.
Some side effects include mild dizziness, weakness, drowsiness, blurred vision, nausea and/or headache.
Read the latest news about bladder dysfunction in multiple sclerosis.
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