Doxazosin

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Cardugen, Cardura XL, Carzin XL

Drug group:

Vasodilator, antihypertensive drug, and drug for urinary disorders

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Doxazosin is a vasodilator drug used in the treatment of:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure) – used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive drugs (enhanced effect on blood pressure when combined)
• Prostate hypertrophy (enlarged prostate gland)

How does it work?

• Doxazosin reduces blood pressure by relaxing the muscles in the blood vessel walls
• It also relaxes the muscles around the prostate gland and bladder exit, making bladder emptying easier

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Hypertension: [tablets] starting dose 1mg, increased gradually as necessary up to 16mg; [MR tablets] starting dose 4mg increased as necessary to 8mg
• Enlarged prostate: initially 1mg, increased gradually at 1–2-week intervals up to 8mg
• Taken 1–2 x daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 2 hours
                                  

How long will the effects last?

24 hours
                  

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor 
                .                  

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No known problems.                                                                      

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: nausea, weakness, drowsiness, swollen ankles, dizziness/fainting on standing
• Less common: stuffy/runny nose, sleep disturbances
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash, incontinence (in women), palpitations, chest pain

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/heart problems, problems with urinary incontinence, previous allergic reaction to doxazosin, due to have cataract or other surgery
• Other medicines: diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, nitrates, antipsychotics, antidepressants, drugs for erectile dysfunction
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary, take extra care when standing up
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and fainting
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive amounts, enhanced side effects (dizziness, drowsiness, fainting)
• Surgery and general anaesthetics: Anaesthetic may drastically reduce blood pressure