Indications
Cardura XL is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient doxazosin mesylate. It belongs to a group of drugs called alpha-blockers and is primarily used to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition in which the prostate gland becomes enlarged and makes it difficult to urinate. Cardura XL works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, which helps to relieve the symptoms of BPH.
In addition to its use in treating BPH, doxazosin is also indicated for the treatment of hypertension, or high blood pressure. It is usually taken once daily with breakfast and may take several weeks to reach its full effect.
Use and Dosage
Cardura XL (Doxazosin) is an oral tablet that is taken as directed by a doctor, usually once daily with breakfast. Swallow the tablets whole and not chew or crush them, as doing so can release all the drug at once and increase the risk of side effects.
The recommended dosage of Cardura XL (Doxazosin) depends on the individual's medical condition and response to treatment. However, the usual initial recommended dose is 4mg once daily. Depending on the patient's symptomatic response and tolerability, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 8mg once daily. Consult with your doctor for specific dosage instructions based on your individual needs.
To get the most benefit from it, take Cardura XL regularly at the same time each day. If you miss taking the medication for a few days, you may need to restart treatment at a lower dose and gradually increase it again. It is important to consult your doctor for more details.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Cardura XL (Doxazosin):
- Abnormal vision
- Decreased sexual ability
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain or weakness
- Runny nose
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- Tiredness
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Cardura XL (Doxazosin):
- Abdominal pain
- Anxiety
- Chest pain
- Dark urine
- Dizziness upon standing (dose-related)
- Drowsiness
- Easy bleeding or bruising
- Fainting
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Headache
- Hives
- Irregular heartbeat or fluttering (palpitations)
- Lightheadedness
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea
- Painful erection of the penis that lasts for hours
- Persistent sore throat
- Rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
- Runny nose
- Shortness of breath
- Spinning sensation (vertigo)
- Swelling (edema)
- Swelling of hands or feet
- Tired feeling
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Weakness
- Weight gain
Forms and Strength
Cardura XL (Doxazosin) is available in the following forms and strength:
Cardura XL: Tablet
- 4 mg
- 8 mg
Doxazosin: Tablet
- 4 mg
Cautions
- Hypotension: Cardura XL can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying down position. This can lead to dizziness, fainting, or falling. Patients should rise gradually from a seated or lying position to help prevent these symptoms.
- Cardiovascular effects: Cardura XL may cause cardiovascular effects, including palpitations, an irregular heartbeat or chest pain. Patients with underlying cardiovascular conditions or risk factors should be monitored closely while taking Cardura XL.
- Liver impairment: The safety of Cardura XL has not been established in patients with severe liver impairment. It should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate liver impairment.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Cardura XL may not be safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should speak with their healthcare provider before taking this medication.
- Prostate cancer: Cardura XL is not recommended for use in patients with prostate cancer or suspected prostate cancer.
- Surgery: Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they are scheduled to undergo eye surgery due to cataracts or other procedures. Cardura XL can cause a complication called intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) during eye surgery.
- Mental effects: Cardura XL may cause mental effects such as nervousness, depression, or anxiety.
- Allergic reactions: Patients who have experienced an allergic reaction to Cardura XL or any of its components should not take this medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I miss a dose of Cardura XL?
If a dose of Cardura XL is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time of the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule should be resumed.
What should I do if I overdose on Cardura XL?
If an overdose is suspected, immediate medical attention should be sought. Symptoms of an overdose may include dizziness, weakness, or fainting.
Can Cardura XL cause sexual dysfunction?
In some cases, Cardura XL may contribute to sexual dysfunction, such as difficulty getting or maintaining an erection. This side effect is generally rare, but patients should discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.
How long does it take for Cardura XL to start working?
Men taking Cardura XL for BPH of can start to feel relief within 1 to 2 weeks. Some people taking the tablet for high blood pressure may start to have a lower blood pressure within 6 hours, although effects may not be felt until about 1 to 2 weeks later.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-95349/cardura-xl-oral/details
- https://www.rxlist.com/doxazosin/generic-drug.htm
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a693045.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/cardura-xl.html
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=cfbb4ddc-00e9-403e-8529-41eb96b81618
- https://www.pdr.net/drug-summary/Cardura-XL-doxazosin-mesylate-1850
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