New warnings about Flomax (tamsulosin)

November 23, 2005 - Boehringer Ingelheim and the FDA notified healthcare professionals of revisions to PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS sections of the prescribing information for Flomax, indicated for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A surgical condition termed Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) has been observed during phacoemulsification cataract surgery in some patients treated with alpha-1 blockers including Flomax. Most of these reports were in patients taking the alpha-1 blocker when IFIS occurred, but in some cases alpha-1 blocker had been stopped prior to surgery. It is recommended that male patients being considered for cataract surgery, as part of their medical history, be specifically questioned to ascertain whether they have taken Flomax or other alpha-1 blockers. If so, the patient's ophthalmologist should be prepared for possible modifications to their surgical technique that may be warranted should IFIS be observed during the procedure.

Questions or concerns regarding this important safety information can be directed to Boehringer Ingelheim Medical Drug Information Departments at 1-800-542-6257. As always, pharmacies and members can also contact the RxAmerica customer service desk at 1-800-770-8014 if they have any questions about this new product warning.