NEWLY DISCOVERED USES (OFF-LABEL)
Nonbacterial prostatitis, preoperative preparation for pheochromocytoma
ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL) High blood pressure or benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)
BRAND NAME Cardura
DRUG CLASS
Antihypertensive (alpha-adrenergic blocker)
DESCRIPTION
This drug causes relaxation of veins and arterioles and a decrease in total vascular resistance and blood pressure.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Postural hypotension (sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing from sitting or lying down position), dizziness, headache, impotence, libido decreased, ejaculation disturbances, weakness, edema, fatigue, somnolence, nervousness, pain, vertigo, sexual dysfunction, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, edema, fatigue, malaise.
CAUTIONS
Do not use concurrently with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (such as sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil).
Marked orthostatic hypotension (sudden drop in blood pressure when standing from sitting or lying down position), syncope, and loss of consciousness may occur with first dose (especially in patients taking beta blockers, diuretics, low sodium diets, or taking large first doses).
Rarely, this drug class has been associated with priapism (painful erection).
Avoid rapid increase in dose.
Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver impairment.
Does not affect levels of PSA (prostate specific antigen) a marker test used to diagnose prostate cancer.
PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
FDA Pregnancy Risk Category B. Excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor prior to initiation of breast-feeding.
SPECIAL INFORMATION
Take dose at bedtime. Notify your doctor if dizziness or palpitations occur.
