Brand name:
Doxacard(DOXACARD , Doxazosin, Cardura )
Pronounced: Do-ha-carD
Generic name: Doxazosin mesylate
Why is Doxacard prescribed?

Doxacard is used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, a condition in which the prostate gland grows larger, pressing on the urethra and threatening to block the flow of urine from the bladder. The drug relieves symptoms such as a weak stream, dribbling, incomplete emptying of the bladder, frequent urination, and burning during urination.

Doxacard is also used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is effective when used alone or in combination with other blood pressure medications, such as diuretics, beta-blocking medications, calcium channel blockers or ACE inhibitors.

Doctors also prescribe Doxacard, along with other drugs such as digitalis and diuretics, for treatment of congestive heart failure.
Most important fact about Doxacard

If you have high blood pressure, you must take Doxacard regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Doxacard; and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Doxacard does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.

Why should Doxacard not be prescribed?

Doxacard should not be taken if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Doxacard or such drugs as Minipress or Hytrin. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you may have experienced.
Special warnings about Doxacard

Doxacard can cause low blood pressure, especially when you first start taking Doxacard and when dosage is increased. This can cause you to become faint, dizzy, or light-headed, particularly when first standing up. You should avoid driving or any hazardous tasks where injury could occur for 24 hours after taking the first dose, after your dose has been increased, or if Doxacard has been stopped and then restarted.

In rare cases, men taking drugs such as Doxacard have developed priapism--a painful, long-lasting erection that persists for hours. This condition can lead to impotence, so if it occurs contact your doctor right away.

If you have liver disease or are taking other medications that alter liver function, your doctor will monitor you closely when you take Doxacard.Doxacard may lower blood counts. Your doctor will most likely monitor your blood counts while you are taking Doxacard.

This medication may cause you to become drowsy or sleepy. For this reason, too, driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended.

Prostate cancer has some of the same symptoms as benign prostatic hyperplasia; your doctor will want to make sure you do not have cancer before starting you on Doxacard.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Doxacard

No significant interactions have been reported.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Doxacard during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Doxacard may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Doxacard is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Doxacard is finished.

How should you take Doxacard?

This medication can be taken with or without food.

Doxacard should be taken exactly as prescribed, even if your symptoms have disappeared. Try not to miss any doses. If this medication is not taken regularly, your condition may worsen.

If you have benign prostatic hyperplasia, you should see improvement in a week. Blood pressure will fall in 2 to 6 hours.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.
Doxacard side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Doxacard.

* Side effects may include:
Dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, headache
Recommended dosage for Doxacard

ADULTS
Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. Although no specific information is available, low blood pressure is the most likely symptom of an overdose of Doxacard.

If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.