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Doxazosin Mesylate
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CONSUMER INFORMATION
Doxazosin Mesylate
CAS number 74191-85-8
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.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, drowsiness, trouble
sleeping, weight gain, joint/muscle pain, or decreased sexual
ability/interest may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell
your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she
has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side
effects occur: chest pain, jaw/left arm pain, weakness on one side of the
body, slurred speech, confusion.
For males, in the unlikely event you have a painful or prolonged erection
lasting 4 or more hours, stop using this drug and seek immediate medical
attention, or permanent problems could occur.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek
immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic
reaction, including: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble
breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other
effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking doxazosin, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or to other alpha blockers such as prazosin and
terazosin; or if you have any other allergies.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical
history, especially of: prostate cancer, heart disease (e.g., congestive
heart failure, angina, heart attack in last 6 months), liver disease, kidney
disease.
To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a
sitting or lying position, especially when you first start taking this drug
or whenever your doctor changes your dose. Also, when you first start taking
this drug, avoid situations where you may be injured if you faint.
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Use caution while driving, using
machinery, or doing any activity that requires alertness. Limit alcoholic
beverages.
Before having surgery (including cataract eye surgery), tell your doctor or
dentist that you are taking this medication.
The elderly may be at greater risk for dizziness and low blood pressure
while using this drug.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your
usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. Check with your
doctor if you miss 2 or more doses.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature below 86 degrees F (30 degrees C)
away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all
medicines away from children and pets.
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