Doxazosin

Doxazosin is a medicine sold under several brand names, that is used to treat the symptoms of high blood pressure and enlarged prostate in men. It belongs to a class of medications known as alpha-1 receptor antagonists. It is a prescription only medication and is supplied in the form of tablets.

Doxazosin is a medicine sold under several brand names, that is used to treat the symptoms of high blood pressure and enlarged prostate in men. It belongs to a class of medications known as alpha-1 receptor antagonists. It is a prescription only medication and is supplied in the form of tablets.

Doxazosin reduces blood pressure by causing the blood vessels to relax so blood can flow through more easily.
In a similar way, doxazosin lessens the symptoms of a benign enlarged prostate gland by helping to relax the muscle surrounding the bladder and prostate gland so the patient can urinate more easily.

Doxazosin is usually taken once a day with a glass of water. It does not matter if it is taken in the morning or evening, but it works best if it is taken at approximately the same time each day.

The dosage and duration of doxazosin will vary according to the reason for the prescription. Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.

As with all medications, doxazosin is associated with certain side effects. The most commonly experienced side effects of doxazosin are dizziness or vertigo, headaches, oedema, the urge to urinate more frequently than usual, and pain in the abdomen.
Talk to your doctor if any symptoms persist and cause you discomfort.

Doxazosin is only prescribed to adults. It is not intended for use in children under the age of 18 years unless specifically prescribed by a paediatrician.

Doxazosin may not be the best treatment if you have ever had any of the following conditions:

• An anaphylactic reaction to doxazosin or other medicines of the same class, such as alfuzosin, tamsulosin or prazosin;
• Orthostatic hypotension - low blood pressure that can cause dizziness or light-headedness on standing;
• An enlarged prostate gland at the same time as low blood pressure;
• An enlarged prostate gland at the same time as bladder stones or a longstanding UTI infection;
• An enlarged prostate gland and feelings of faintness after or during urination;
• Other issues with urination, such as not feeling the urge to urinate or struggling to produce any urine;
• Cataracts that need to be surgically removed.

Doxazosin is not usually recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding so tell your doctor if either applies to you. You should be aware that alcohol may exacerbate the side effects of doxazosin, so it is advisable to limit your consumption of alcohol whilst taking the medication.
There are no contraindications against driving, other than avoiding driving if you experience dizziness or vertigo.