Role of Tamsulosin in Ureteric Stones-A Prospective Study

Ureteric colic has been an age-old problem encountered in medical practice. Ureteric stones are a known cause of this problem. Many conservative medical therapies have been researched and studied. Tamsulosin, an Alpha 1A specific inhibitor which was initially used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia has recently been shown to increase the rate of spontaneous passage of distal ureteral stones. Alpha adrenergic blocker Tamsulosin reduces muscles spasm in the ureteric wall, decreases peristalsis below and raises pressure above the stone thus facilitating stone passage. Use of Tamsulosin 0.4 mg daily in patients with distal ureteric stones is clinically safe and cost effective.