Doxazosin

 Doxazosin – Full Introduction

Doxazosin is an α₁-adrenergic receptor blocker used primarily in the treatment of hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and improves urinary flow by relaxing smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder neck.

Drug Class

• Alpha-1 Adrenergic Blocker

Mechanism of Action

Doxazosin selectively blocks α₁-adrenergic receptors located in vascular smooth muscle and in the prostate. This results in:

• Vasodilation of arteries and veins

• Decreased peripheral vascular resistance

• Reduced blood pressure

• Relaxation of prostate and bladder neck smooth muscle, improving urine flow

Therapeutic Uses

• Hypertension

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

• Adjunct therapy in resistant hypertension

• Symptomatic relief of urinary obstruction in BPH

Benefits

• Controls blood pressure without affecting heart rate

• Improves urinary symptoms in BPH

• Favorable effects on lipid profile

• Once-daily dosing

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Nasal congestion

• Orthostatic hypotension (especially after first dose)

Serious but Rare Side Effects

• Syncope (fainting)

• Severe hypotension

• Palpitations

• Peripheral edema

Contraindications & Precautions

• History of orthostatic hypotension

• Severe liver impairment

• Use with caution in elderly patients

• First-dose effect: start with low dose and take at bedtime

Conclusion

Doxazosin is a useful antihypertensive agent, particularly beneficial in patients with both hypertension and BPH. Due to the risk of first-dose hypotension, careful dose titration and monitoring are essential.