DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE

Drug Name: DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE

DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE DESCRIPTION:
DOXAZOSIN - ORAL (dox-AZE-oh-sin)

COMMON DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE BRAND NAME(S):
Cardura

DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE SIDE EFFECTS:
Dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, headache, constipation, loss of appetite, dry mouth, tiredness, stuffy nose, blurred vision, dry eyes or trouble sleeping may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: chest pain, depression, swelling of hands or feet, sexual problems. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: persistent sore throat, fever, easy bleeding or bruising, nausea, stomach pain, yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine. Males - though it is unlikely to occur, if you get a painful, prolonged erection, stop using DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE and seek immediate medical attention. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE:
DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE: Take DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time each day. Take the first dose at bedtime to minimize the chances of getting dizzy or fainting. It is important to continue taking DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Do not stop taking DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE USES:
DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE relaxes and dilates (expands) blood vessels resulting in lowered blood pressure. It is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

OTHER USES OF DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE:
DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE may also be used for treating heart failure. DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE can also be used in males for prostate enlargement symptoms such as urinary hesitancy and/or urgency.

DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver or kidney disease, allergies (especially to other quinazolines such as prazosin). To avoid dizziness or fainting, get up slowly from a lying or seated position; especially when you first start using DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE or if your doctor changes your dosing. Limit your intake of alcohol and avoid getting overheated because they may increase the dizziness and drowsiness effects of DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription). Avoid any drugs that increase your heart rate or make you excited like decongestants because it may counteract your blood pressure medicine. Decongestants are commonly found in over-the-counter cough and cold products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness and weakness.

DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE NOTES:
It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE. Learn how to monitor your blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist. Your doctor may schedule lab tests periodically to see how the drug is working.

MISSED DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. Check with your doctor if 2 or more doses have been missed.

DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.