Cardura
Need help?
Our patient support team is available Monday through Friday 8AM - 6PM PST, and Saturday 9AM - 12PM PST.
What Is Cardura?
Cardura, also known by its generic name doxazosin, is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of two conditions: benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and high blood pressure. BPH is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which can cause urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, increased frequency, and weak urine flow. Cardura helps relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder, allowing for easier urination. In addition to BPH, Cardura can also be used to manage high blood pressure, a condition that can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications. By relaxing and widening the blood vessels, Cardura helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. It's worth mentioning that Cardura belongs to a class of drugs called alpha blockers. This means that it works by blocking certain receptors in the body, thereby reducing resistance to blood flow and promoting smooth muscle relaxation. Like any medication, Cardura may have side effects. Common side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, fatigue, and nasal congestion. It is essential to take Cardura exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional and to follow up regularly to monitor its effectiveness and any potential side effects.
How to use Cardura?
When using Cardura, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. This medication is typically taken orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. The dosage may vary depending on your individual condition, so it's crucial to take the prescribed dose. For the treatment of an enlarged prostate, Cardura helps relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate. It is usually taken once daily, preferably at the same time each day, to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. For high blood pressure, Cardura works to relax and widen blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly. In this case, your doctor may prescribe a different dosage or schedule of administration. It is important to continue taking Cardura regularly, even if you feel well. Sudden discontinuation of the medication may lead to a rapid increase in blood pressure or worsening of BPH symptoms. If you have any concerns or questions about how to use Cardura, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.
There are several warnings associated with the use of Cardura (generic name: doxazosin). Firstly, this medication can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially during the first few doses. This can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting. To minimize this risk, it is recommended to take the first dose at bedtime, as it can help to decrease the likelihood of experiencing these effects. Secondly, Cardura can also cause a condition called orthostatic hypotension, where blood pressure drops significantly upon standing up. This can lead to dizziness or fainting, particularly for older adults. It is important to get up slowly from a sitting or lying position to minimize the risk of this side effect. Another warning associated with Cardura is its potential to cause priapism, a painful and prolonged erection that can last for hours. This is a rare side effect, but it requires immediate medical attention to prevent any long-term complications. Furthermore, Cardura may interact with other medications, such as alpha-blockers, which can increase the risk of low blood pressure. It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions. Lastly, Cardura can also cause drowsiness and fatigue. It is essential to be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you personally. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and report any concerning side effects or symptoms while taking Cardura.
Before taking Cardura, it is important to be aware of the following warnings: 1. Allergic reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a known allergy to any components of Cardura. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to more severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention. 2. Low blood pressure: Cardura can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when standing up or getting out of bed. This may lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. To minimize the risk, it is recommended to take the first dose of Cardura at bedtime. 3. Priapism: In rare cases, Cardura has been associated with priapism, a painful and persistent erection of the penis. If you experience an erection lasting longer than 4 hours, seek immediate medical attention to prevent potential complications. 4. Pre-existing medical conditions: Inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, including liver disease, kidney disease, or heart problems. Certain conditions may require dosage adjustments or close monitoring while taking Cardura. 5. Interaction with other medications: Cardura may interact with other medications, such as alpha blockers, erectile dysfunction drugs, or medications for high blood pressure. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions. 6. Surgery: If you are scheduled for any surgical procedures, including dental surgery, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking Cardura. The medication may need to be temporarily discontinued to prevent any complications during anesthesia. It is essential to carefully follow your doctor's instructions and regularly monitor your blood pressure while taking Cardura. If you experience any concerning side effects or have any questions, consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.
Cardura, also known by its generic name doxazosin, is a medication commonly prescribed to treat two conditions: benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and high blood pressure. As with any medication, there are potential side effects that patients should be aware of. Common side effects of Cardura include dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, headache, and weakness. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, and they tend to improve as the body adjusts to the medication. More serious side effects are rare but can occur. These may include a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, causing dizziness or fainting. It is important to rise slowly from sitting or lying down positions to minimize this risk. Other serious side effects may include an irregular heart rate, chest pain, swelling of the hands or feet, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Cardura, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider right away. They can evaluate your symptoms and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects associated with Cardura. Always consult your healthcare provider or refer to the medication's official prescribing information for a comprehensive list of potential side effects.
The active ingredient in Cardura is doxazosin mesylate. Doxazosin belongs to a class of medications known as alpha-adrenergic blockers. It works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, which helps to relieve symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate. In addition to doxazosin, Cardura tablets may also contain certain inactive ingredients such as lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch, sodium starch glycolate, magnesium stearate, and others. These inactive ingredients are used to help bind the tablet, enhance its stability, and aid in the absorption of the active ingredient. It's important to note that the specific inactive ingredients may vary depending on the formulation and manufacturer of the medication. It is always advisable to check the package insert or consult a healthcare professional for the complete list of ingredients in a specific brand or generic version of Cardura.
Cardura, also known by its generic name doxazosin, is a medication primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and high blood pressure. Proper storage of Cardura is essential to maintain its effectiveness and ensure its safety. Here are some guidelines on how storage should be handled for Cardura: 1. Temperature: Store Cardura at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). 2. Moisture: Keep the medication away from excessive moisture or humidity. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or any area prone to moisture. 3. Light: Protect Cardura from direct sunlight and keep it in its original packaging. Exposure to light can degrade the medication. 4. Child-proof container: Keep Cardura in a child-proof container to prevent accidental ingestion by children. 5. Accessibility: Store Cardura out of reach of children and pets. Elevated storage, such as a locked cabinet, is ideal. 6. Medication discard: Check the expiration date on the medication packaging. If it is past the expiration date, discard it properly as per disposal guidelines. Remember to always follow the storage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the medication packaging. If you have any specific concerns or questions about storing Cardura, consult your pharmacist or healthcare professional.
Similar Drugs
Our philosophy is simple — hire a team of diverse, passionate people and foster a culture that empowers you to do your best