Drug Name: Doxazosin
Brand Names: Cardura
Generic Name: Doxazosin (dox ay' zoe sin)
Uses: Doxazosin is a medication used to relieve the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH (enlarged prostate) such as difficulty or painful urination, incomplete bladder emptying and frequent urination or urgency to urinate. It is also used to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure in combination with other medication. For enlarged prostate, Doxazosin works by relaxing the muscles of the bladder neck and the prostate while for high blood pressure, it works by allowing the veins and arteries to relax and expand thereby promoting efficient blood flow.
How to use: Doxazosin is taken with or without food once a day, either in the morning or in the evening.
Side Effects: Among the common side effects of Doxazosin include shortness of breath, dizziness, dry mouth, lightheadedness, drowsiness, excessive tiredness, muscle or joint pain, weakness, abnormal vision, swelling of the hands, feet, ankles or lower legs, runny nose and decreased sexual ability. Call your doctor immediately if you experience these serious symptoms – fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat and painful erection (for the males) which may last for a few hours.
Precautions: Doxazosin can cause drowsiness or dizziness so avoid driving or operate any machine within 24 hours after taking the medicine. The drug may also cause dizziness, lightheadedness and fainting after getting up quickly from a lying position. To avoid this, get out of bed slowly and rest your feet on the floor for a few minutes before standing up. If you are undergoing a cataract surgery, inform your doctor if you are taking Doxazosin as this may affect the pupils of the eyes. Doxazosin should not be given to patients who are allergic to it and to other drugs such as prazosin, terazosin or any other medications.
Drug Interaction: Doxazosin may interact with other medications for high blood pressure.
Overdose: Dizziness, fainting, lightheadedness and seizure are among the symptoms of Doxazosin overdose. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms are present.
Notes: While taking Doxazosin, you may be prescribed to take a low-salt or low-sodium diet. Since Doxazosin may cause dizziness or fainting especially after taking your first dose, you may take the drug at bedtime to avoid falling. You may continue to take it at bedtime if you always feel light-headed.
Missed Dose: The missed dose may be taken as soon as possible but if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not double the dose. If you missed two or more doses, inform your doctor.
Important Note: To determine your response to Doxazosin, subject yourself for regular blood pressure checking. Remember that Doxazosin does not cure high blood pressure and BPH, it only controls the blood pressure and relieves the symptoms of BPH.
Storage: Keep Doxazosin in a tightly-closed container and store it at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture.
Important resources about Doxazosin:
Doxazosin medical terms and effects
