Cardura XL (Doxazosin)

Do’s

Before starting Cardura XL, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider for clarification.

The dosage of Cardura XL is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you.

Take Cardura  XL by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily with breakfast. Swallow the tablets whole.

Cardura XL may cause a sudden drop in your blood pressure, which could lead to dizziness or fainting, typically within a few hours after taking it. The risk is higher when you first start taking this drug, after your healthcare provider increases your dose, or if you restart treatment after stopping. During these times, avoid situations where you may be injured if you faint.

Take Cardura XL regularly to get the most benefit from it. Try to take it at the same time each day to help you remember. 

If you miss taking Cardura XL for a few days, you may need to restart treatment at a lower dose and gradually increase your dose again. Consult your healthcare provider for more details.

If you are switching from another form of doxazosin to the extended-release form (Cardura XL), be sure to follow your healthcare provider's instructions closely.

Tell your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or if it worsens while taking Cardura XL.

Don’ts

Do not crush or chew the tablets, as this can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.

Common Side Effects: 

Dizziness, drowsiness, or lightheadedness as your body adjusts to the medication

Serious Side Effects: 

A sudden drop in blood pressure, which could lead to dizziness or fainting, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position

Other Potential Side Effects: 

Changes in heart rate

Chest pain

Difficulty breathing

Swelling of the hands or feet

Prolonged or painful erection

This is not a complete list of possible side effects, and other effects may occur. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Cardura XL can potentially interact with other medications. Consult a healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Cardura XL is not recommended if you are allergic to doxazosin or other quinazoline medications. It should also be used with caution by those with liver or kidney disease. Marked changes in gastrointestinal function could affect the absorption of Cardura XL.

Cardura XL is not recommended during pregnancy. It is not known if doxazosin passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding is not recommended either.

Before prescribing Cardura XL, healthcare providers may examine the prostate gland and conduct a blood test called a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to check for prostate cancer. Prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can cause similar symptoms, but they require different treatments.

Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Cardura XL.