Doxazosin is an alpha-blocker that is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Alpha-blockers work by relaxing blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily and lowers blood pressure.
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Doxazosin is also used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. BPH can cause urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, a weak stream, and the need to urinate frequently.
Doxazosin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important Information
You should not use doxazosin if you are allergic to it, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to another alpha-blocker.
To make sure doxazosin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
liver disease;
kidney disease;
low blood pressure;
a heart rhythm disorder;
coronary artery disease (clogged arteries);
a stroke;
or
if you smoke.
Doxazosin may cause a sudden drop in blood pressure after the first dose. You may feel dizzy or faint. Call your doctor if you have these symptoms.
Your blood pressure will need to be checked often.
Do not stop taking doxazosin without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.
If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medicine even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life.
If you are being treated for benign prostatic hyperplasia, you should know that doxazosin may make your urine flow more slowly. Doxazosin may also cause a complete inability to urinate. Even if you take doxazosin for BPH, you could still have a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.
Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of doxazosin.
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with doxazosin and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products while taking this medicine.
Avoid taking an antacid within 4 hours before or after you take doxazosin. Antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb doxazosin.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It is not known whether doxazosin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.
How should I take doxazosin?
Take doxazosin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.
Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
You may take doxazosin with or without food.
Your blood pressure will need to be checked often, and you may need other blood tests at your doctor’s office.
If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medicine even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life.
If you are being treated for benign prostatic hyperplasia, you should know that doxazosin may make your urine flow more slowly. Doxazosin may also cause a complete inability to urinate. Even if you take doxazosin for BPH, you could still have a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.
Call your doctor if you have ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, or if you are sweating more than usual. You can easily become dehydrated while taking this medicine.
If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using doxazosin.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
