QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
It is recommended that tamsulosin be avoided in patients with severe liver dysfunction but routine monitoring of liver function is not necessary
34368
d
Liver function tests
QuestionChoice
This is not necessary prior to starting this drug
34366
b
Arterial doppler ultrasound
QuestionChoice
It is recommended that tamsulosin be avoided in patients with severe renal dysfunction but routine monitoring of renal function is not necessary
34369
e
Urea and electrolytes
QuestionChoice
As an alpha-blocker, tamsulosin may exacerbate orthostatic hypotension, particularly in the elderly
34365
a
Blood pressure
QuestionChoice
Tamsulosin blocks alpha adrenergic receptors rather than beta adrenergic receptors and has very limited activity on the heart
34367
c
ECG
Concept
Chapter
#### Monitoring

The BNF advises to monitor lung function (in patients with a history of obstructive airway disease).

#### Overdoses

Overdosages with beta-blockers may cause cardiac effects such as bradycardia, hypotension, syncope, conduction abnormalities, and heart failure. Bradycardia is the most common arrhythmia, but some beta-blockers may induce ventricular tachyarrhythmias secondary to prolongation of QT interval (e.g. sotalol) or QRS duration (e.g. propranolol).
Non-cardiovascular effects include central nervous system effects (including drowsiness, confusion, convulsions, hallucinations, and in severe cases coma), respiratory depression, and bronchospasm.

Management
 - Airway protection 
 - Activated charcoal within 1 hour
 - IV Fluids
 
IV glucagon is the first-line management.
 
For symptomatic bradycardia, IV atropine may be used.

2618
2816
Tamsuolsin side effects
Topic
74
Elderly Care
6884
Case Presentation: A 70 year old man is seen in the outpatient urology clinic for consideration of starting tamsulosin hydrochloride 400 micrograms PO OD to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy. **PMH** temporal arteritis, depression. **DH** venlafaxine modified release 150mg PO OD


Question: Select the most appropriate option to monitor for adverse effects of tamsulosin.
a