Doxazosin is used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, a condition in which the prostate gland grows larger, pressing on the urethra and threatening to block the flow of urine from the bladder. The drug relieves symptoms such as a weak stream, dribbling, incomplete emptying of the bladder, frequent urination, and burning during urination.
Doxazosin is also used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is effective when used alone or in combination with other blood pressure medications, such as diuretics, beta-blocking medications, calcium channel blockers or ACE inhibitors.
Physicians also prescribe Doxazosin , along with other drugs such as digitalis and diuretics, for treatment of congestive heart failure.
Dosage and administration
Doxazosin can be taken with or without food. Doxazosin should be taken exactly as prescribed, even if your symptoms have disappeared. Try not to miss any doses. If this medication is not taken regularly, your condition may worsen. If you have benign prostatic hyperplasia, you should see improvement in a week. Blood pressure will fall in 2 to 6 hours.
Adults: Your physician will adjust the dosage to fit your needs. The usual starting dose is 1 milligram taken once a day. To minimize the potential for dizziness or fainting associated with Doxazosin, which may occur between 2 and 6 hours after a dose, your physician will monitor your blood pressure during this period and afterwards. After the effects of the starting dose are measured, your physician may increase the daily dose to 2 milligrams and then, if necessary, to 4 milligrams, 8 milligrams, or, in people with high blood pressure only, up to 16 milligrams. As the dose increases, the potential for side effects such as dizziness, vertigo, light-headedness, and fainting also increases.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of this drug in children have not been established.
If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
