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Cardura XL
Cardura XL is an extended-release alpha-blocker used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate. Doxazosin works by relaxing blood vessels and muscles in the prostate and bladder, allowing blood to flow more easily and improving urine flow in men with BPH. The extended-release formulation provides a consistent effect over 24 hours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Cardura XL to start working?
Cardura XL begins to work within a few hours, but it may take several weeks to achieve the full benefit, particularly for BPH symptoms or blood pressure control.
Can I take Cardura XL with food?
Yes, it is recommended to take Cardura XL with breakfast to improve absorption and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of Cardura XL, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the regular time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Cardura XL?
Alcohol can lower blood pressure and increase the risk of dizziness or fainting, especially when combined with Cardura XL. It’s best to limit alcohol consumption and consult your healthcare provider for specific advice.
Is Cardura XL safe for women?
Cardura XL is primarily prescribed for men with BPH, but it may also be used in both men and women to treat high blood pressure. Women taking Cardura XL should consult their healthcare provider, especially if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does Cardura XL Work?
Cardura XL works by blocking alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscles of the blood vessels, prostate, and bladder neck. This causes:
- Vasodilation: Relaxation of blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure.
- Relaxation of Prostate and Bladder Muscles: Reducing resistance to urine flow, which helps improve urination in men with BPH.
What is Cardura XL Used For?
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): To lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): To improve urine flow and reduce the symptoms of BPH, such as difficulty starting urination and frequent nighttime urination.
Common Dosages
Cardura XL belongs to the class of alpha-1 adrenergic blockers (alpha-blockers). This class of drugs works by relaxing smooth muscles in the blood vessels and the bladder/prostate area, improving blood flow and reducing urinary symptoms.
Administration: Cardura XL is taken once daily, with breakfast, to maintain consistent levels of the medication in the body. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or cut, as this would affect the extended-release mechanism.
Frequency: Once daily, usually in the morning.
Duration of Use: Cardura XL is typically used as a long-term treatment for hypertension or BPH. Blood pressure and urinary symptoms should be regularly monitored.
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
Cardura XL is available in extended-release tablets with the following strengths:
- 4 mg
- 8 mg
The dose is individualized based on the patient's response and the condition being treated.
Who Shouldn't Take Cardura XL?
Cardura XL is contraindicated in patients with:
- Hypersensitivity to doxazosin or other quinazoline derivatives.
- History of orthostatic hypotension (a significant drop in blood pressure when standing).
- Severe liver impairment.
Advice From The Pharmacist
Patients using Cardura XL should be advised to:
- Take the medication with food, preferably at the same time each day to maintain stable blood levels.
- Be cautious when standing up from a sitting or lying position, especially during the first few days of treatment, as Cardura XL can cause dizziness or fainting due to a sudden drop in blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension).
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they know how Cardura XL affects them, as it may cause dizziness.
- Report any signs of low blood pressure (dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting), particularly when standing up quickly.
- Stay hydrated, as dehydration can exacerbate the effects of low blood pressure.
Side Effects of Cardura XL
Common Side Effects
- Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up.
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Orthostatic Hypotension: A sudden drop in blood pressure when standing, which can cause fainting.
- Priapism: A prolonged and painful erection that requires immediate medical attention.
- Heart Palpitations: Fast or irregular heartbeats, which may require adjustment of the dose.
Risks and Warnings of Cardura XL
Orthostatic Hypotension: Cardura XL can cause significant drops in blood pressure, particularly after the first dose or dose increases. Patients should be monitored for symptoms of dizziness or fainting, especially when standing.
Syncope (Fainting): This is more likely to occur during the first few days of treatment or after a dose increase. Patients should rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to avoid fainting.
Priapism: A rare but serious side effect, where prolonged erections may occur. Immediate medical attention is necessary if an erection lasts more than 4 hours.
Use in Cataract Surgery (Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome): Patients planning cataract surgery should inform their surgeon if they are taking Cardura XL, as it may cause complications during the procedure.
Interactions with Cardura XL
Common Drug Interactions
Cardura XL may interact with other medications, including:
- PDE5 Inhibitors: Such as sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis), used for erectile dysfunction. When used together, these medications can cause a significant drop in blood pressure.
- Antihypertensive Medications: Combining Cardura XL with other blood pressure-lowering drugs may increase the risk of hypotension (low blood pressure).
- CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Such as clarithromycin or ketoconazole, which can increase blood levels of doxazosin and increase the risk of side effects.
Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Alternatives to Cardura XL
Alternative treatments for hypertension and BPH include:
- Other Alpha-Blockers: Such as tamsulosin or alfuzosin, which are commonly used to treat BPH.
- Beta-Blockers: Such as metoprolol or atenolol, which lower blood pressure by slowing the heart rate.
- ACE Inhibitors: Such as lisinopril, used to lower blood pressure and treat heart failure.
- 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors: Such as finasteride, which are used to treat BPH by reducing the size of the prostate gland.
