Abstract

Tamsulosin modified-release and oral-controlled absorption system formulations in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Author(s): Marleen M van Dijk, Jean JMCH de la Rosette and Martin C Michel

Tamsulosin is an α1-adrenergic receptor antagonist. For many years, it has been available in a modified-release (MR) capsule formulation only, but recently, an oral-controlled absorption system (OCAS) tablet formulation has been introduced. Tamsulosin is an effective treatment for patients with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia for many years. The overall tolerability of tamsulosin 0.4 mg MR is comparable to placebo and is not affected by cardiovascular comorbidity or concomitant medication. The tamsulosin 0.4 mg OCAS tablet has a smoothened pharmacokinetic profile compared with the 0.4 mg MR capsule. While the efficacy of tamsulosin OCAS and tamsulosin MR are comparable, the OCAS formulation appears to have minor advantages regarding tolerability, which may become clinically relevant if the MR capsule is taken on an empty stomach.