Urology Drugs

Question 1

Alpha blockers examples

Answer 1

Doxazosin, tamsulosin, alfuzosin

Question 2

Alpha blockers indications

Answer 2

1. BPH: 1st line medical treatment to improve symptoms where lifestyle changes insufficient
2. Resistant hypertension: other treatment insufficient

Question 3

Alpha blockers MOA

Answer 3

• Selective for a1-adrenoceptors found in smooth muscle of blood vessels and urinary tract
• Blockade causes smooth muscle relaxation, resulting in vasodilation (+ fall in BP), and reduced resistance to bladder outflow

Question 4

Alpha blockers contraindications

Answer 4

1. Postural hypotension

Question 5

Alpha blockers side effects

Answer 5

• Postural hypotension

- Dizziness and syncope

Question 6

Alpha blockers interactions

Answer 6

-Caution when prescribing with other hypotensive agents, especially beta-blockers which inhibit reflex tachycardia which fors compensatory mechanism to vasodilation

Question 7

5a-reductase inhibitors examples

Answer 7

Finesteride

Question 8

5a-reductase inhibitors indications

Answer 8

1. BPH: 2nd line after alpha blockers

Question 9

5a-reductase inhibitors MOA

Answer 9

• Reduce size of prostate to improve LUTS and reduce need for surgery
• 5-a reductase enzyme converts testosterone to active dihydrotestosterone: stimulates prostatic growth
• Inhibition reduces prostatic enlargement and improves urinary flow, but takes several months

Question 10

5a-reductase inhibitors contraindications

Answer 10

-Pregnancy: exposure of male foetus may cause abnormal genitalia development. Pregnant women must not handle broken tablets or have unprotected sex with men taking.

Question 11

5a-reductase inhibitors side effects

Answer 11

Anti-androgen action:

• Impotence + reduced libido
• Breast tenderness + gynaecomastia
• Hair growth
• Breast cancer reported