GENERIC NAME: doxazosin
mesylate
BRAND NAME: Cardura
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Cardura is an inhibitor of
the alpha 1
adrenergic nervous system. It is in a class of drugs referred to as alpha blockers that includes alfusosin (Uroxatral), terazosin (Hytrin), tamsulosin (Flomax), and prazosin (Minipress). Elevated blood pressure
(hypertension) is
lowered as the action of these nerves, which promote
constriction of blood
vessels, is blocked.
Cardura was also found to relax the muscles around the
prostate gland
which is also under the influence of the alpha adrenergic
portion nervous
system. This can makes urination easier for men affected by
enlarged
prostate glands.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: 1mg, 2mg, 4mg, and 8mg oral tablets.
STORAGE: Store in a dry place at 30 degrees C (86 F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Cardura is used for the control of
elevated
blood pressure (hypertension) and for benign prostatic
hyperplasia
(noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland).
DOSING: Cardura should be taken at doses specifically
directed
by your physician. This medication can be taken with or without
food. Cardura should be taken the same time each day to maintain
proper blood
levels. Do not take Cardura within two hours of taking an
antacid. If
stopped you must taper the dose.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Do not use in excess. First doses of
Cardura or any Alpha 1 inhibitor should be taken with caution. The
first doses may
cause excessive lowering of the blood pressure and cause
dizziness and
fainting. Strict compliance with dosing is mandatory. Usually a
slow
increase in dosing is desirable.
PREGNANCY: This medication should be taken while
pregnant only if strongly indicated.
SIDE EFFECTS: An uncommon but dangerous side effect is
a drop in
the white blood cells which normally help to fight infection.
Liver damage
is uncommon. Dizziness and fainting can occur if the blood
pressure is
lowered too fast. Swelling of the ankles and fatigue may occur.
Most
persons should have periodic blood studies while taking Cardura. This
medication will rarely cause nausea, headaches, anxiety,
insomnia,
drowsiness, nasal congestion and sexual dysfunction. Consult
your
pharmacist and physician for additional drug interactions.
Additional drug information:
Cardura (doxazosin mesylate) FDA approved labeling at RxList.
http://www.rxlist.com/cardura-drug/article.htm
Last Editorial Review: 12/31/1997
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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