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.
• Ask your doctor if prescription medicines, such as antidepressants and pain medicines, could be making your symptoms worse. He or she may be able to switch your medicine.
• 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.