Silodosin works by inhibiting the alpha 1A-adrenergic receptor and relieving tension in the prostate, lessening pressure and reducing urethral resistance.
Kissei Pharmaceutical discovered silodosin, a selective alpha 1A-adrenoceptor antagonist existing mainly in the prostate.
Daiichi Sankyo and Kissei Pharmaceutical have been jointly marketing silodosin under the brand name, Urief, in Japan since May 2006.