Urinary Drug Linked to Cataract Surgery Complications

According to a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), the drug Flomax, also known as tamsulosin hydrochloride, which is used to treat enlarged prostates in men, is associated with serious complications following cataract surgery, including something called floppy iris syndrome.

The study found that men using Flomax for urinary problems associated with an enlarged prostate were twice as likely to suffer complications following eye surgery. The analysis evaluated post-surgical complications in 96,128 men all aged 66 years or more, who had undergone cataract surgery in Ontario, Canada.

While the Flomax patient information insert advises men considering cataract surgery to inform their doctors that they are taking the drug, an accompanying editorial in JAMA suggested the drug should carry a black box warning.

By the age of 70, three quarters of men have an enlarged prostate-a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia. Cataract surgery is also common in this age group.

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If you or a loved one has suffered post cataract surgery complications while using this drug, please click the link below and your complaint will be sent to a lawyer who may evaluate your claim at no cost or obligation.
Published on May-20-09