Prostate Drug Use May Mean Cataract Surgery Change

Men who have ever taken Flomax or other drugs known as alpha-blockers to treat an enlarged prostate may face some recovery problems from, of all things, cataract surgery.

[Hector Swain]

What recvovery problems could arise from cataract surgery? I am due to have cataract surgery Sept 14. Thanks H.S

[Hector Swain]

As posted previously, WhaT RECOVERY PROBLEMS arise FROM CATARACT SURGERY? H.S.

[Muthu Manki]

It is only Flomax (Tamsulosin) that causes the problem (Intra Operative Floppy Iris or IFIS). Statistically about 50 to 60% of persons on Flomax had the problem while for other alpha blockers like terazosin, doxazosin etc. the percentage was only 7% and that too showed only symptoms like IFIS. Problem was also found with person who had not taken alpha blocker but had other medication. An attempt is being made to use the word 'alpha blocker' instead of Flomax or Tamsulosin to make it look as if they are all equal in effect on Cataract Surgery. Flomax is not superior to others in effect but it has no side effects like hypotension. Patients who can tolerate other alpha blockers should go in for them to avoid problems during cataract surgery

[Gary Wixson]

I'm going to have cartarac surgery. How long before surgery should I stop taking Flomax and would it be OK to take after surgery?

[John Davis]

I have not taken Flomax for 16 months. Can I expect a "flomax complication" during upcoming cataract surgery?