Manufacturer: Cipla, India
Pharmaceutical name: Silodosin
Pack: 30 pills (4 mg)
Silofast pills are utilized for the management of functional symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men who have an enlarged prostate gland. They alleviate urinary retention symptoms that arise from obstructed urine flow due to the prostate pressing against the urethra (the tube responsible for urine excretion from the bladder). This facilitates smoother urine passage, prevents urine retention in the bladder, restores bladder control, and alleviates issues such as frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, straining, and challenges in urination. Silofast aids in enhancing urine flow and minimizing symptoms, potentially lowering the necessity for surgical intervention.
Silofast features Silodosin, an alpha1-blocker (also referred to as an alpha-adrenergic antagonist), which selectively and strongly binds to the alpha adrenergic receptor found in the smooth muscle of the prostate. The binding of Silodosin in Silofast inhibits the effects of naturally occurring adrenergic substances like noradrenaline, which typically lead to the contraction and tightening of smooth muscle cells. BPH results from the proliferation of smooth muscle cells within the prostate and heightened muscle tone. The Silodosin in Silofast relaxes these muscle cells, alleviating the pressure from the enlarged prostate on the urethra (urine outlet from the bladder) and also relaxes the muscle cells at the bladder neck.
By acting in this manner, Silodosin in Silofast eliminates the obstruction to urine flow caused by the prostate and allows for freer urine passage through the urethra; it also relaxes the bladder neck, facilitating easier urine expulsion from the bladder. Silofast pills are designed for modified release, meaning the absorption rate of Silodosin into your bloodstream is regulated and only one capsule needs to be taken daily.
Potential side effects include: dizziness, headaches, abnormal ejaculation, weakness (asthenia), postural hypotension (dizziness upon standing), and palpitations.