An Introduction to Doxazosin Uses
The prostate gland, located below the bladder, is part of the male reproductive system.
The urethra (the canal that takes urine out of the body) runs through the prostate.
An enlarged prostate (known medically as benign prostatic hyperplasia, benign prostatic hypertrophy, or
BPH) is common among older men. The prostate begins growing during puberty and continues to grow throughout most of adulthood. Usually, this is not a problem until men reach their 50s or 60s. When the prostate becomes too large, it can press against the urethra, causing problems with urination. Specific BPH symptoms may include frequent urination (which is especially noticeable at night) and difficulty emptying the bladder fully when urinating.
One of the most common ways doctors detect an enlarged prostate is by the digital rectal exam. During this exam, the doctor inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel the size and shape of the prostate. Some men can have a BPH diagnosis without having any symptoms.
Treatment for BPH typically includes:
- "Watchful waiting" (doing nothing, especially if symptoms are not bothersome)
- Medication
- Surgery.
Doxazosin is one of the medications used for BPH. It works by blocking alpha-1 receptors, which are certain nerves to the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck (where urine leaves the bladder). Blocking these signals helps to relax the muscles, thus relieving the symptoms of BPH. While doxazosin does not shrink the prostate, as some other BPH medications do, it does work quickly to relieve symptoms of an enlarged prostate. However, doxazosin is not a cure for BPH.
