Medicines to avoid if you have benign prostatic hyperplasia

Some medicines can make urination difficult.

  • Avoid nonprescription antihistamines, decongestants (including nasal sprays), and allergy pills.
  • Avoid prescription medicines such as antidepressants, water pills (diuretics), and pain medicines (narcotics).
  • Avoid testosterone, including gels, implants, or injections.
  • Check with your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of the medicines, supplements, or herbs you are taking. If urinary retention is listed as a side effect, ask your doctor whether there are other medicines you can take that do not have this side effect.

Author: Monica RhodesLast Updated: March 24, 2008
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology/Oncology

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