Prescription Drug Index

Cardura is used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia a condition in which the prostate gland grows larger pressing on the urethra and threatening to block the flow of urine from the bladder. The drug relieves symptoms such as a weak stream dribbling incomplete emptying of the bladder frequent urination and burning during urination.

Cardura is also used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is effective when used alone or in combination with other blood pressure medications such as diuretics beta-blocking medications calcium channel blockers or ACE inhibitors.

Doctors also prescribe Cardura along with other drugs such as digitalis and diuretics for treatment of congestive heart failure.

ADULTS

Your doctor will adjust the dosage to fit your needs.

The usual starting dose is 1 milligram taken once a day. To minimize the potential for dizziness or fainting associated with Cardura which may occur between 2 and 6 hours after a dose your doctor may monitor your blood pressure during this period and afterwards. The first dose is sometimes taken at bedtime to minimize this effect. However be especially careful if you need to get up during the night. These effects may also occur with any doses you take after the first dose. Getting up slowly may help lessen this problem. If you feel dizzy lie down so that you do not faint. Then sit for a few moments before standing to prevent the dizziness from returning.

After the effects of the starting dose are measured your doctor may increase the daily dose to 2 milligrams and then if necessary to 4 milligrams 8 milligrams or in people with high blood pressure only up to 16 milligrams. As the dose increases the potential for side effects such as dizziness vertigo light-headedness and fainting also increases.

If you miss a dose of this medicine take it as soon as possible. However if it is almost time for your next dose skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

If you miss several doses call your doctor to see at what dose you should start again.

CHILDREN

The safety and effectiveness of this drug in children have not been established.

Note:

The content in this section is provided for informational purposes only. This information regarding the following Canadian drugs is not intended to replace or act as a substitute for information or advice provided by your physician. You should always consult a physician before beginning a new medication. Moreover, prescription drugs should only be obtained with a doctor's prescription.

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