Cardura 4 mg XL tab

Medication Name: Cardura 4 mg XL tablets
Active Ingredient: Doxazosin mesylate 4 mg (extended-release)
Drug Class: Alpha-1 adrenergic blocker

Indications:

Cardura XL is used for:

1. Hypertension (high blood pressure) – lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels.

2. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – relieves urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, such as:

   • Difficulty starting urination

   • Weak urine stream

   • Frequent or urgent urination

Mechanism of Action:

Doxazosin blocks alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in:

• Blood vessels → causes vasodilation, reducing blood pressure.

• Prostate and bladder neck → relaxes smooth muscles, improving urine flow in BPH.

Extended-release (XL) form: provides steady blood levels over 24 hours, allowing once-daily dosing with reduced fluctuations and fewer side effects.

Dosage and Administration:

• Usual dose: 4 mg once daily, preferably in the morning or evening as prescribed.

• Take exactly as prescribed, do not crush, chew, or split the XL tablet.

• Dose may be adjusted by the physician based on blood pressure response or BPH symptom relief.

• Can be taken with or without food.

Side Effects:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness (especially when standing)

• Fatigue or drowsiness

• Headache

• Swelling of legs or feet (edema)

• Nasal congestion

• Palpitations

• Rarely, fainting or severe drop in blood pressure

Warnings and Precautions:

• First-dose hypotension: risk of sudden drop in blood pressure, especially after the first dose; stand up slowly.

• Use caution if you have: liver disease, heart disease, or low blood pressure.

• Inform your doctor about other medications that may lower blood pressure.

• Not suitable for crushing or splitting, as this destroys the extended-release mechanism.

Storage:

Store below 25°C, in a dry place away from direct sunlight.