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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Dizziness After Having Tamsulosin And Finasteride?

hello, I have been taking tamsulosin and finasteride for about a year now for a slightly enlarged prostate, and I was told that I might experience slight dizziness from moving too quickly from a lying or sitting position. This has occurred periodically over the year but has not caused me any problems, but lately I find that the dizziness has increased and I also have headaches quite frequently. I am scheduled to see my doctor in 2 weeks time as I live in a remote area where doctors are scarce . my question is, is it ok to stop taking the tamsulosin and finasteride at least until I see my doctor without it causing me any problems such as withdrawal of any kind, thank you
posted on Fri, 20 Feb 2015
Twitter Sat, 14 Mar 2015 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 16 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi
Thanks for choosing HCM for your query.
I have gone through the problems described in your question.
I am of the opinion that the recurrent dizziness spells are mainly due to Tamsulosin. A fall in BP when you change your position from sitting or sleeping to standing occurs (postural hypotension) due to pooling of blood in the periphery (legs). As a result of hypotension you get headache due to increase heart rate a compensatory mechanism.
This can be minimized or prevented by taking the dose at bed time.

Finasteride is unlikely to cause the postural hypotension and hence dizziness or headache.

In view of your appointment in two weeks time take Tamsulosin at bed time, its sudden stoppage may cause increase in BP and the urinary symptoms urgency, frequency may get exaggerated.

I hope your doubts are clarified.
A feed back is appreciated if you are convinced.
Take care.
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What Causes Dizziness After Having Tamsulosin And Finasteride?

Hi Thanks for choosing HCM for your query. I have gone through the problems described in your question. I am of the opinion that the recurrent dizziness spells are mainly due to Tamsulosin. A fall in BP when you change your position from sitting or sleeping to standing occurs (postural hypotension) due to pooling of blood in the periphery (legs). As a result of hypotension you get headache due to increase heart rate a compensatory mechanism. This can be minimized or prevented by taking the dose at bed time. Finasteride is unlikely to cause the postural hypotension and hence dizziness or headache. In view of your appointment in two weeks time take Tamsulosin at bed time, its sudden stoppage may cause increase in BP and the urinary symptoms urgency, frequency may get exaggerated. I hope your doubts are clarified. A feed back is appreciated if you are convinced. Take care.