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Home > Drug Category > Prostate Medication (BPH) > Cardura and Equivalent

Cardura Information

Cardura (Doxazosin) is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, a prevalent condition in older men, which involves a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, causing primarily urinating difficulties. It is typically used to curtail the symptoms of this condition, although it does not actually shrink the prostate itself. As an alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist, it blocks alpha-1 adrenergic receptors on the smooth muscle cells of the prostate and the neck of the bladder, causing relaxation. This subsequently leads to a reduction in the urinary symptoms associated with this condition, such as a weak stream, dribbling, difficulty starting urination, or the need to go often or urgently. You may notice an improvement in symptoms within a week or two.

Doxazosin is also used as one of the second-line medications in the treatment of systemic hypertension (high blood pressure). It is typically used as an add-on therapy when other first-line blood pressure medications (like ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics) haven't worked well enough on their own. Its effect on alpha-1 adrenergic receptors relaxes blood vessels, decreasing total peripheral resistance and making it easier for blood to flow through the body, which, in turn, lowers blood pressure. This medication is available in standard and extended-release tablet forms. However, it is essential to note that the extended-release form should not be used for treating hypertension.

Cardura Side Effects

Like any medication, Doxazosin can cause side effects. The most notable ones are related to its blood pressure-lowering effect, which can cause dizziness (especially with postural changes, such as standing up quickly from sitting or lying down), fatigue, and headache. Other possible side effects include ejaculation problems, weight gain, and swelling of the feet, ankles, or fingers. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects don't resolve or bother you.

Doxazosin can cause intraoperative floppy iris syndrome, which can happen during a cataract surgery. If you're scheduled for eye surgery, you must tell the surgeon that you are taking Doxazosin, as it may influence the outcome of the procedure. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Chest pain or rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat;
• Increased frequency of infections with symptoms like sore throat, fever, feeling unwell, cough, sinus, or chest congestion;
• Painful or prolonged erection of the penis (priapism);
• Severe dizziness and fainting spells

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Cardura Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to doxazosin, other ingredients in Cardura, or any other medicines. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Abdominal problems such as blockage of the digestive tract, chronic constipation;
• Blood cell disorders such as low blood cell count;
• Eye problems;
• Heart disease;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Low blood pressure;
• Overflow incontinence

Cardura can cause drowsiness or dizziness, which can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Therefore, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you, especially 24 hours after your first dose of doxazosin, after a dose increase, and when the medication is started again after not taking it for a while. Your doctor will recommend regular liver tests while you are taking this medication, as people taking doxazosin may have changes in liver function that produce abnormal liver test results.

As you may experience dizziness with postural changes while taking this medication, it is advised to be careful when getting up from a lying or sitting position (move slowly). This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This medication should be used with caution in elderly individuals as they are more prone to its side effects, especially dizzy spells. It is suitable for use in children and adolescents aged 18 years or younger. Taking medications like phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors along with doxazosin can put one at risk of severely low blood pressure. Therefore, it is essential to inform your doctor about all the medications, including herbal medicines and supplements, that you are taking before starting Doxazosin to prevent drug interactions.

Take Cardura tablets orally as prescribed by your doctor or as stated in the medication pack. Please consult your doctor for the appropriate dose for you, as it usually depends on your medical condition, among other factors. Cardura can be taken with or without food. Still, it is essential to take it at the same time every day to maintain a consistent level in your bloodstream. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew them. Store this medication at room temperature, protect from light and moisture, and keep it out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Cardura?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Cardura.