Cardura XL

The active ingredient in Cardura XL is doxazosin mesylate.

• Doxazosin works by blocking alpha-1 receptors found in blood vessels and the prostate. These receptors normally tighten muscles and narrow blood vessels. By blocking them, Cardura XL:
• Relaxes muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate.
• Widens blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.
• Reduces symptoms linked to BPH, such as urgency or difficulty starting urination.
• Because it targets smooth muscle, its effects support both urinary flow and cardiovascular function.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Cardura XL. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Cardura XL:

• Take Cardura XL once daily, in the morning, with breakfast.
• Swallow tablets whole; do not cut, crush, or chew the extended-release formulation.
• Take the medicine at the same time each day.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember, unless it is close to your next dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• You may notice the shell of the tablet in your stool. This is normal and not a cause for concern.
• Your healthcare provider may start you on a low dose and increase it gradually to reduce dizziness or low blood pressure.

Some mild or common side effects of Cardura XL seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Dizziness or light-headedness.
• Headache.
• Fatigue.
• Low blood pressure when standing (orthostatic hypotension).
• Drowsiness.
• Swelling in the hands, legs, or feet.
• Nasal congestion.
• Abdominal pain or nausea.
• Constipation.
• Weakness.
• Back pain.
• Palpitations.
• Blurred vision.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Cardura XL. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Chest pain or symptoms of a heart attack.
• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath.
• Priapism (a painful erection lasting more than 4 hours).
• Severe allergic reactions such as hives, skin rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Worsening swelling or sudden weight gain.
• Severe dizziness that doesn’t improve.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Cardura XL. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Cardura XL, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• A history of low blood pressure or dizziness when standing.
• Heart disease or a history of heart failure.
• Liver disease.
• Digestive tract narrowing or blockage.
• Prostate cancer (symptoms can overlap with BPH).
• Eye problems such as cataracts or glaucoma.
• A history of fainting.
• Erectile dysfunction treatments such as sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil.
• Allergic reactions to other alpha blockers, such as prazosin or terazosin.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you are scheduled for cataract surgery. Cardura XL may increase the risk of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome during the procedure.

Cardura XL should not be used in individuals who:

• Are allergic to doxazosin or any ingredient in the extended-release tablet.
• Have severe digestive tract narrowing that may prevent proper movement of the extended-release form.
• Have a history of severe hypotension associated with other alpha blockers.

Your healthcare provider will determine whether Cardura XL is appropriate based on your symptoms and medical history.

Some people may notice improved urine flow and reduced BPH symptoms within a few days, while full benefits can take several weeks. For high blood pressure, improvements may be seen within 1 to 2 weeks, with steady control developing over time.

When Cardura XL is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Other alpha blockers (prazosin, terazosin, tamsulosin).
• PDE-5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction (sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil).
• Blood pressure medications that may cause low blood pressure.
• Ketoconazole, itraconazole, and other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.
• Medications that cause drowsiness or slowed reaction time.
• Supplements that lower blood pressure.
• Certain antidepressants may increase dizziness.
• Alcohol can increase sedation and low blood pressure.
• Over-the-counter allergy medicines can cause drowsiness.

Cardura XL is available as extended-release tablets in the following strengths: 4 mg and 8 mg.

Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate starting dose and whether a higher dose is needed based on your response and tolerance.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Cardura XL is manufactured by Pfizer Inc.

Yes. The generic form, doxazosin mesylate extended-release, is available in the same strengths as the brand-name product.

Do not stop taking Cardura XL without first talking to your healthcare provider. Stopping suddenly may worsen blood pressure or BPH symptoms.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. Cardura XL is not typically used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit outweighs the risk. Your healthcare provider will help determine the safest option..

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. It is not known how much doxazosin passes into breast milk, and your healthcare provider will recommend the safest approach based on your situation.