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Medication for Kidney Stones

Kidney stones, mineral deposits that form in the kidney, are usually passed naturally or removed via surgery, according to the Mayo Clinic. Alpha blockers can, however, be prescribed to help with the passing of these deposits.

  1. Use

    • Alpha blockers are generally used to relax muscles in the prostate area. This relaxation improves urine flow, increasing spontaneous kidney stone expulsion by 30 percent, according to the Urology Channel.

    Examples

    • Hytrin, Flomax, Cardura, Minipress and Uroxatral are all alpha blockers. Alpha blockers are also called adrenergic-blocking agents or alpha-adrenergic antagonists.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects of taking alpha blockers include nausea, headache, pounding heartbeat, weight gain, and small decreases in LDL cholesterol. Your first dose may cause pronounced dizziness and low blood pressure.

    Warning

    • Fainting may occur when you start taking this medication. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you have determined the drug's effects.

    Other Uses

    • Alpha blockers are also used to help with high blood pressure and some circulatory disorders. The drugs may also be prescribed for hardening of the skin, enlarged prostate, or adrenal gland tumors.

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