Doxazosin (By mouth)
dox-AZ-oh-sin
Treats problems with urination caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate). Also treats high blood pressure.
Drug classes
Antihypertensive, Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy Agent, Cardiovascular Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Doxazosin belongs to the general class of medicines called antihypertensives. It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled.
Doxazosin works by relaxing blood vessels so that blood passes through them more easily. This helps to lower blood pressure.
Doxazosin is also used to treat benign (noncancerous) enlargement of the prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia [BPH]). Benign enlargement of the prostate is a problem that can occur in men as they get older. The prostate gland is located below the bladder. As the prostate gland enlarges, certain muscles in the gland may become tight and get in the way of the tube that drains urine from the bladder. This can cause problems in urinating, such as a need to urinate often, a weak stream when urinating, or a feeling of not being able to empty the bladder completely.
Doxazosin helps relax the muscles in the prostate and the opening of the bladder. This may help increase the flow of urine and/or decrease the symptoms. However, doxazosin will not shrink the prostate. The prostate may continue to get larger. This may cause the symptoms to become worse over time. Therefore, even though doxazosin may lessen the problems caused by enlarged prostate now, surgery still may be needed in the future.
Doxazosin is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Tablet, Long Acting Tablet
Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
The extended-release tablet should be taken each day with breakfast. The regular-release tablet can be taken in the morning or in the evening.
Swallow the extended-release tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
If you take the extended-release tablet, part of the tablet may pass into your stools. This is normal and is nothing to worry about.
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Some medicines can affect how doxazosin works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
Atazanavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin, or voriconazole Blood pressure medicines Medicine to treat erectile dysfunctionWhen Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to doxazosin or to similar medicines.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, heart disease, prostate cancer, or stomach or bowel problems (such as a blockage). Tell your doctor if you plan to have cataract surgery.
This medicine may cause the following problems:
New or worsening angina (chest pain) Priapism (painful, prolonged erection)This medicine could lower your blood pressure too much, especially when you first use it or if you are dehydrated. This can make you dizzy or lightheaded. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you. Stand or sit up slowly if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.
Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Fast, slow, pounding, or uneven heartbeat
Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
New or worsening chest pain
Painful erection or an erection that lasts longer than usual
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Tiredness or weakness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Cardura, Cardura XL
There may be other brand names for this medicine.