Doxazosin

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Doxazosin is classed as a antihypertensive vasodilator drug that relieves hypertension (high blood pressure)it does its job by relaxing the blood vessels, the knock on effect allows blood and oxygen to circulate more easily around the body, lowering blood pressure and reducing the strain on the heart. Doxasosin is removed slowly from the body and because of this is usually taking once daily. Doxazosin may be administered with other antihypertensives including beta blockers since its effects on blood pressure are increased when it is combined with other antihypertensives. This drug can also be given to individuals that suffer from an enlarged prostate gland (benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)) which can reduce the flow of urine from the bladder. Doxazosin works by relaxing the muscle around the bladder exit and prostate gland allowing urine to flow more freely.

At the start of treatment headaches and flushing are a common complaint, and because of sudden lowering of blood pressure in the initial dose the starting dose may be kept low. Doxazosin should be taken at home preferably before going to bed to avoid dizziness or fainting which may occur at the start of your treatment.

Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Vasodilator/antihypertensive drug with danger of overdose – MEDIUM.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – NO.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES
• Excessive amounts of Alcohol may increase the adverse effects of this drug.
• Take tablets with a glass of water. Doxasosin can be taken before or after food.
• Modified release tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted side effects.

Common: Nausea, Weakness, Drowsiness, Headache.
Rare: dizziness, Fainting, Stuffy or runny nose, Chest pain, Palpitations, Rash.

Headache, nausea and weakness are common complaints with this drug. More to the point is the fact that it may cause dizziness and fainting when standing up.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using doxazosin It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side-effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or pharmacist/chemist.

Prolonged Use

There are no special problems when taken over a long period of time.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Because this drug can cause dizziness, drowsiness and fainting you would need to avoid these activities until you know how this drug affects you. Excessive amounts of alcohol should be avoided as alcohol may increase some of the side effects this drug may bring with it.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

You will need to discuss doxazsin with your doctor as safety in pregnancy has not been established. The drug also passes into the breast milk.

Doxazosin is classified as a Pregnancy Category C Medicine by the US Food and Drug Administration <(FDA). Category C… Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the foetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

Over 60’s & Children

You would need to take special care on standing up from a sitting position until you know how this drug will affect you. It is possible doxazosin may make you feel dizzy or light-headed when standing or sitting up quickly. Getting up more slowly will help with this problem. Doxazosin is not recommended for children.

Overdose

If an unintentional extra dose is taken it would be unlikely to give reason for concern. However, if a large overdose has been taken or you think a child may have swallowed any of this medication you should contact your doctor immediately or go to your nearest hospital A&E department taking this medication with you. Symptoms of overdose may include: Drowsiness, Dizziness, light-headedness, fainting, seizure.

Other Medication Reactions

Diuretics, Beta blockers, Calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, Nitrates, some antidepressants and antipsychotics. The effects of these drugs will be increased if taken along-side doxazosin.

Missed A Dose

Try to take this medicine at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses. If you have missed a dose take as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Ideally you would not have this problem if you have already checked with your doctor. Failing this ring the surgery or check next time you see your doctor for peace of mind.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

If doxazosin is stopped suddenly some conditions may become worse. Do not stop taking doxazosin without consulting with your doctor first. He may consider decreasing your dose slowly of a period of time.

Effect Of Medication (from one dose)

You should begin to feel the effects of this medication within 2 hours. Doxazosin is removed from the body slowly so the duration of the drug action is 24 hours.

Storage and Safety

• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• If your due to have treatment like an operation or dental work tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• When you buy any medicines over-the-counter check with the pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
• Never take doxazosin if it has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C or above a working area where high condensation may exit.
• Keep doxazosin in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
• Do not discard old or unwanted drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines/drugs to your pharmacist. who will dispose of them safely.

If doxazosin has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.