Personal Pharmacist - The Script

Men's Health

Written by PeopleOne Personal Pharmacist Team | Nov 17, 2023 1:00:00 PM

CHECK WITH YOUR PERSONAL PHARMACIST WE ARE HERE TO HELP.

  • Ensure you get the most from your medicine.
  • Review what each of your medications is for.
  • Check-in on any concerns you have.
  • Check for any drug interactions.
  • Prevent complications.
  • Help save you money.
  • Be accessible when you need it most.

We know that you may have a close relationship with your doctor or pharmacy. Our goal is to be an extension of your healthcare team as an additional resource.

 

SPOTLIGHT ON MEN'S MEDS

Pharmacist’s counseling on some common medications taken for men’s health

In this issue of The Script, we are focusing on some commonly used medications for men’s health. It is important to note that this is limited information and that these medications can be used for other conditions. Always ask your healthcare provider specific questions about your medications, you can also call a Personal Pharmacist for limited guidance. 
Medications related to sensitive health issues, such as hair loss and erectile dysfunction can be difficult to discuss with your healthcare provider. We encourage you that most healthcare providers want to help you and are professionals who can treat this concern without judgment or criticism.

It can also be difficult to ask questions about these medications in the open area of a local pharmacy. Having access to a clinical pharmacist for personal private questions that you can ask in the privacy of your home is a benefit of having the PeopleOne Personal Pharmacist Program. 

Examples of medications commonly used in men's health

Medication Example Common Use(s)

Adverse reactions to be aware of

Notes and counseling points

Alfuzosin (Uroxatral)

 

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)


As one ages, the prostate gets larger. This can block the flow of urine and cause bladder, urinary tract, or kidney problems

  • Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) (highest risk with tamsulosin)
  • Abdominal pain, constipation, nausea
  • Impotence
  • Orthostatic hypotension: Agents of this class are also used to treat hypertension, so they can affect blood pressure.

What is intraocular floppy iris syndrome? 

  • This condition has been observed in cataract surgery. The eye does not dilate and does not respond well to surgery
  • It is important to notify all your healthcare providers about your current medications.

 

Terazosin (Hytrin)

 

Tamsulosin

 

Sildenafil (Viagra)

 

 

 

Erectile Dysfunction 

 

  • Painful erection lasting longer than 4 hours, this can be potentially very dangerous and should be evaluated as soon as possible
  • Sudden visual changes (blue-tinged vision, blurred vision, or vision loss) in one or both eyes
  • Hearing changes or loss
  • Low blood pressure
  • All medications in this class have cardiovascular concerns, it is important that your provider has assessed your heart. 
  • Do not take these medications if you take a medication called nitroglycerin, taking them both together can be extremely dangerous

 

Tadalafil (Cialis)

 

 

Finasteride (Proscar)

 

 

Androgenetic Alopecia (male pattern hair loss)

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

 

  • Impotence, reduced libido, ejaculatory disorder which my persist after stopping the medication

Special handling: the active ingredient of crushed or broken tablets can be absorbed through the skin. Pregnant women should not touch or handle crushed or broken tablets

 

Minoxidil topical

(Rogaine)

 

 

Alopecia

  • Local skin redness and itching

OTC labeling: when used for self-medications over the counter, do not use if your hair loss is different than the product labeling. Do not use products on females intended for males.

Questions about if your medications? Call your PeopleOne Personal Pharmacist

 

814.297.9960  •  help@personalpharmacist.com  •  www.personalpharmacist.com