Alfuzosin, a quinazoline derivative, acts as a selective and competitive antagonist of alpha 1-adrenoceptor-mediated contraction of prostatic, prostatic capsule, bladder base and proximal urethral smooth muscle, thereby reducing the tone of these structures. Consequently, urethral pressure and resistance, bladder outlet resistance, bladder instability and symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia are reduced. The two enantiomers (S and R) have the same pharmacological activity as the racemate. Ligand binding and functional studies demonstrate that the alpha1-antagonist properties of alfuzosin reside equally in its two enantiomers. Racemic alfuzosin is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and adjunctive therapy in acute urinary retention.