Cardura (Doxazosin Mesylate) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

Pill Identifier Search

May 26, 2012

Cardura

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia »

What is the prostate gland?

The prostate is a small organ about the size of a walnut. It lies below the bladder (where urine is stored) and surrounds the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder). The prostate makes a fluid that helps to nourish sperm as part of the semen (ejaculatory fluid).

Prostate problems are common in men 50 and older. Most can be treated successfully without harming sexual function. A urologist is a specialist in diseases of the urinary system, including diagnosing and treating problems of the prostate gland.

How does the doctor detect prostate enlargement?

A doctor usually can detect an enlarged prostate by rectal exam. The doctor also may examine the urethra, prostate, and bladder using a cytoscope, an instrument that is inserted through the penis.

What is benign prostatic hyperplasia?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is nonmalignant...

Read the Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia article »

« Previous
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
Next »

Cardura User Reviews >>

Cardura

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Slideshow

Take the Salt Quiz!

Lowering Blood Pressure Exercise Tips Pictures

font size

Cardura Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

DOXAZOSIN - ORAL

(dox-AZE-oh-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cardura

USES: Doxazosin is used alone or in combination with other drugs to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

This medication is also used in men to treat the symptoms of a prostate gland condition called BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as enlarged prostate). It does not shrink the prostate, but it works by relaxing the muscles in the bladder neck and prostate. Relaxing these muscles leads to relief of symptoms of BPH such as the feeling of needing to urinate frequently or urgently, weak stream, difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, and the need to urinate during the middle of the night.

Doxazosin belongs to a class of medications called alpha blockers.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. To avoid injury related to dizziness or fainting, take your first dose of doxazosin at bedtime. Your dose may be gradually increased. Take your first new dose at bedtime when your dose is increased unless directed otherwise by your doctor.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens (e.g., your blood pressure readings increase or your BPH symptoms worsen).