COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cardura
GENERIC NAME(S): DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE
Description: Doxazosin blocks the α1-adrenoceptors on postsynaptic effector cells in arteriolar and venous vascular beds resulting in vasodilation of veins and arterioles and decrease in total peripheral resistance and BP.
Doxazosin is an alpha blocker used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) preventing strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems, benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH). It does not shrink the prostate, but it works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and part of the bladder. This helps to relieve symptoms of BPH such as difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, weak stream, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently (including during the middle of the night).
How to use doxazosin
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.
Doxazosin may cause a sudden drop in your blood pressure, which could lead to dizziness or fainting, usually within 2 to 6 hours after you take it.
You should see a benefit from this drug within 1 to 2 weeks. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (for example, your blood pressure readings remain high or increase, or your BPH symptoms worsen).
Not available
Side effects may range from mild to serious complications. Consult your doctor immediately when you feel the following symptoms: Dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, unusual tiredness, or weight gain,
fainting, shortness of breath, weakness, swelling of hands/feet, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, easy bleeding/bruising, fever, persistent sore throat, vision changes, chest pain, jaw/left arm pain, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, confusion, prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours. If this occurs, stop using this drug and get medical help right away, or permanent problems could occur.
Seek emergency medical help if you experience allergies (rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing) or the symptoms mentioned above while taking this drug.
Precautions
Inform your doctor of your allergies (food or drugs), medical conditions and medical history before taking this drug, especially of: heart disease (such as congestive heart failure, angina, heart attack in last 6 months), liver disease, certain eye problems (cataracts, glaucoma).
Do not perform activities that require alertness such as driving and using machinery because this drug can make you dizzy.
Before having surgery (including cataract/glaucoma eye surgery), tell your doctor or dentist if you are taking or have ever taken this medication, and about all the other products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects. For pregnant and nursing (breastfeeding) women, consult your doctor before using this medication.
Interactions
Before using this drug, tell your doctor of the current medications, products (herbal/nonprescription) that you are taking especially of: other alpha blocker drugs (such as prazosin, tamsulosin), drug to treat erectile dysfunction-ED or pulmonary hypertension (such as sildenafil, tadalafil), azole antifungals (such as itraconazole, ketoconazole), boceprevir, macrolide antibiotics (such as clarithromycin), HIV protease inhibitors (such as lopinavir, ritonavir), among others.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include: severe dizziness, fainting, weakness. Seek emergency help right away.
or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
Missed Dose
Take it as soon as you remember. Do not increase the dose to catch up. If it is less than 6 hours until the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Storage
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Discard the drug properly- do not throw in toilet or sink.
Brands
Available Brands:
Alfadil XL [ Pfizer ]
UsesWarningsSide EffectsPrecautionsOverdose & BrandsUses Ultravist is used in the following conditions: Radiographic Imaging: Iopromide injection is utilized to enhance the [...]
UsesWarningsSide EffectsPrecautionsOverdose & BrandsUses Ultramox is used in the following conditions: Respiratory Infections: Amoxicillin is often used to treat respiratory [...]
UsesWarningsSide EffectsPrecautionsOverdose & BrandsUses Ultraliv is used in the following conditions: Carnitine Orotate: Carnitine orotate is a combination of L-carnitine [...]
