Doxazosin is a medication used to manage certain health conditions. For older adults, understanding its potential side effects is important, as age-related physiological changes can make them more susceptible to adverse effects.
What Doxazosin Treats
Doxazosin is an alpha-blocker that relaxes muscles and blood vessels. It is prescribed primarily for two conditions: hypertension (high blood pressure) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an enlarged prostate in men. For hypertension, doxazosin relaxes blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure.
For BPH, doxazosin works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and the bladder neck. This relaxation helps to improve urine flow and alleviate symptoms such as difficulty urinating, a weak stream, or frequent urination. While doxazosin can manage these symptoms, it does not shrink the prostate itself.
Common Side Effects in Older Adults
Older adults may experience certain side effects more intensely due to age-related changes in metabolism or other health conditions. A notable side effect is orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing. This can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting, increasing the risk of falls. These effects are often most pronounced after the first dose or a dose increase.
Other common side effects include dizziness, fatigue, and headaches. Some individuals may also experience nasal congestion or swelling in the feet, ankles, or fingers. While generally mild, these symptoms can still impact daily activities.
Strategies for Managing Side Effects
Managing doxazosin side effects often involves practical adjustments and communication with healthcare providers. To help mitigate dizziness and orthostatic hypotension, it is advisable to change positions slowly, especially when moving from a lying or sitting position to standing. Resting your feet on the floor for a few minutes before fully standing can provide stability.
Staying adequately hydrated is also important to maintain blood pressure and reduce dizziness. Taking doxazosin at bedtime, particularly the first dose, can help to lessen the impact of initial dizziness or drowsiness. Limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption is recommended, as alcohol can worsen the blood pressure-lowering effects of doxazosin and increase dizziness. Open communication with your doctor about any symptoms experienced is also helpful for effective management.
When to Contact a Doctor
Certain symptoms or situations while taking doxazosin warrant prompt medical attention. If you experience severe dizziness, frequent fainting spells, or a feeling like you might pass out, contact your doctor immediately. These could be signs of a significant drop in blood pressure.
Other concerning symptoms include new or worsening chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a painful erection lasting four hours or longer. Any signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing, should also prompt immediate emergency medical help.