Indications
- Doxazosin is used alone or in combination with other drugs to manage high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure aids in preventing strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.
- The medication functions by relaxing blood vessels, facilitating smoother blood flow.
- In men, Doxazosin is also employed to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH).
- It doesn’t reduce the size of the prostate but works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and a portion of the bladder. This alleviates BPH symptoms, including difficulty initiating urine flow, weak stream, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently, especially during the night.
- Doxazosin belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha blockers.
Dosage and administration
- Prior to taking doxazosin, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.
- Doxazosin may cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness or fainting, typically within 2 to 6 hours after taking it. This risk is higher when starting the drug, increasing the dose, or restarting treatment after stopping. To prevent injury due to dizziness or fainting, take the first dose at bedtime unless otherwise directed by your doctor. The initial dose is usually low, gradually increasing as directed by your doctor.
- The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
- Take the medication regularly at the same time each day to maximize its benefits. If you miss a few doses, you may need to restart treatment at a low dose and gradually increase it again. Consult your doctor for details.
- Continue taking the medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure don’t feel sick.
- You should observe benefits within 1 to 2 weeks. Inform your doctor if your condition doesn’t improve or worsens (e.g., blood pressure remains high or increases, BPH symptoms worsen).
Side effects
- Possible side effects of doxazosin include dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, unusual tiredness, or weight gain. Inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly if these effects persist or worsen.
- To minimize the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, rise slowly when getting up from a sitting or lying position.
- The medication has been prescribed because your doctor deems the benefits outweigh the risks. Many users do not experience serious side effects.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects such as signs of infection, fainting, shortness of breath, weakness, or swelling of hands/feet.
- Seek immediate medical attention for very serious side effects, including chest pain or a painful/prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours, which is rare but requires prompt attention.
- While severe allergic reactions are uncommon, seek medical help if you observe symptoms like rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- This list does not encompass all possible side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice other effects not listed above.
Precautions
- Prior to taking doxazosin, disclose to your doctor or pharmacist any allergies you may have, including allergies to other alpha blockers such as prazosin or terazosin. Inactive ingredients in the product might trigger allergic reactions.
- Provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have heart disease (e.g., heart failure, angina, heart attack in the last 6 months), liver disease, or certain eye problems like cataracts or glaucoma.
- Be aware that this drug may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or using machinery, until you can do so safely. Limit alcohol consumption and discuss marijuana use with your doctor.
- Inform your doctor or dentist about your use of this medication before undergoing surgery, including cataract/glaucoma eye surgery. Include details about all other products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of doxazosin, especially dizziness and low blood pressure when changing positions. These side effects can increase the risk of falling.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.