DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE tablet

Doxazosin Mesylate by

Drug Labeling and Warnings

Doxazosin Mesylate by is a Prescription medication manufactured, distributed, or labeled by Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC. Drug facts, warnings, and ingredients follow.

Drug Details [pdf]

  • 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

    1.1 Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

    Doxazosin mesylate tablets are indicated for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of BPH.

    1.2 Hypertension

    Doxazosin mesylate tablets are indicated for the treatment of hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions. These benefits have been seen in controlled trials of antihypertensive drugs from a wide variety of pharmacologic classes, including this drug.

    Control of high blood pressure should be part of comprehensive cardiovascular risk management, including, as appropriate, lipid control, diabetes management, antithrombotic therapy, smoking cessation, exercise, and limited sodium intake. Many patients will require more than one drug to achieve blood pressure goals. For specific advice on goals and management, see published guidelines, such as those of the National High Blood Pressure Education Program’s Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC).

    Numerous antihypertensive drugs, from a variety of pharmacologic classes and with different mechanisms of action, have been shown in randomized controlled trials to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and it can be concluded that it is blood pressure reduction, and not some other pharmacologic property of the drugs, that is largely responsible for those benefits. The largest and most consistent cardiovascular outcome benefit has been a reduction in the risk of stroke, but reductions in myocardial infarction and cardiovascular mortality also have been seen regularly.

    Elevated systolic or diastolic pressure causes increased cardiovascular risk, and the absolute risk increase per mmHg is greater at higher blood pressures, so that even modest reductions of severe hypertension can provide substantial benefit. Relative risk reduction from blood pressure reduction is similar across populations with varying absolute risk, so the absolute benefit is greater in patients who are at higher risk independent of their hypertension (for example, patients with diabetes or hyperlipidemia), and such patients would be expected to benefit from more aggressive treatment to a lower blood pressure goal.

    Some antihypertensive drugs have smaller blood pressure effects (as monotherapy) in Black patients, and many antihypertensive drugs have additional approved indications and effects (e.g., on angina, heart failure, or diabetic kidney disease). These considerations may guide selection of therapy.

    Doxazosin mesylate tablets may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensives.

  • 2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

    2.1 Dosing Information

    Following the initial dose and with each dose increase of doxazosin mesylate tablets, monitor blood pressure for at least 6 hours following administration. If doxazosin mesylate tablets administration is discontinued for several days, therapy should be restarted using the initial dosing regimen.

    2.2 Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

    The recommended initial dosage of doxazosin mesylate tablets is 1 mg given once daily either in the morning or evening.

    Depending on the individual patient’s urodynamics and BPH symptomatology, the dose may be titrated at 1 to 2 week intervals to 2 mg, and thereafter to 4 mg and 8 mg once daily. The maximum recommended dose for BPH is 8 mg once daily.

    Routinely monitor blood pressure in these patients.

    2.3 Hypertension

    The initial dosage of doxazosin mesylate tablets is 1 mg given once daily. Daily dosage may be doubled up 16 mg once daily, as needed, to achieve the desired reduction in blood pressure.

  • 3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

    Doxazosin mesylate tablets, USP are available as colored tablets for oral administration. Each tablet contains doxazosin mesylate equivalent to 1 mg (white), 2 mg (yellow), 4 mg (orange) or 8 mg (green) of the active constituent, doxazosin.

  • 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

    The use of doxazosin mesylate tablets is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to doxazosin, other quinazolines (e.g., prazosin, terazosin), or any of its components.

  • 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

    5.1 Postural Hypotension

    Postural hypotension with or without symptoms (e.g., dizziness) may develop within a few hours following administration of doxazosin mesylate. However, infrequently, symptomatic postural hypotension has also been reported later than a few hours after dosing. As with other alpha-blockers, there is a potential for syncope, especially after the initial dose or after an increase in dosage strength. Advise patient how to avoid symptoms resulting from postural hypotension and what measures to take should they develop.

    Concomitant administration of doxazosin mesylate with a PDE-5 inhibitor can result in additive blood pressure lowering effects and symptomatic hypotension.

    5.2 Cataract Surgery

    Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) has been observed during cataract surgery in some patients on or previously treated with alpha1 blockers. This variant of small pupil syndrome is characterized by the combination of a flaccid iris that billows in response to intraoperative irrigation currents, progressive intraoperative miosis despite preoperative dilation with standard mydriatic drugs, and potential prolapse of the iris toward the phacoemulsification incisions. The patient’s surgeon should be prepared for possible modifications to their surgical technique, such as the utilization of iris hooks, iris dilator rings, or viscoelastic substances. There does not appear to be a benefit of stopping alpha1 blocker therapy prior to cataract surgery.

    5.3 Prostate Cancer

    Carcinoma of the prostate causes many of the symptoms associated with BPH and the two disorders frequently co-exist. Carcinoma of the prostate should therefore be ruled out prior to commencing therapy with doxazosin mesylate for the treatment of BPH.

    5.4 Priapism

    Alpha1 antagonists, including doxazosin, have been associated with priapism (painful penile erection, sustained for hours and unrelieved by sexual intercourse or masturbation). This condition can lead to permanent impotence if not promptly treated.

  • 6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

    6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

    Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

    Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
    The incidence of adverse events has been ascertained from worldwide clinical trials in 965 BPH patients. The incidence rates presented below (Table 2) are based on combined data from seven placebo-controlled trials involving once-daily administration of doxazosin mesylate in doses of 1 to 16 mg in hypertensives and 0.5 to 8 mg in normotensives. Adverse reactions occurring more than 1% more frequently in BPH patients treated with doxazosin mesylate vs placebo are summarized in Table 1.

    Table 1. Adverse Reactions Occurring more than 1% More Frequently in BPH Patients Treated with Doxazosin Mesylate Versus Placebo

    BODY SYSTEM

    Doxazosin Mesylate
    N=665

    Placebo
    N=300

     NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS

     Dizziness†

     15.6%

     9.0%

     Somnolence

     3.0%

     1.0%

     CARDIAC DISORDERS

     Hypotension

     1.7%

     0%

     RESPIRATORY, THORACIC AND MEDIASTINAL DISORDERS

     Dyspnoea

     2.6%

     0.3%

     GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS

     Dry Mouth

     1.4%

     0.3%

     GENERAL DISORDERS AND ADMINISTRATION SITE CONDITIONS

     Fatigue

     8.0%

     1.7%

     Oedema

     2.7%

     0.7%

     †Includes vertigo

     

     


    Other adverse reactions occurring less than 1% more frequently in BPH patients treated with doxazosin mesylate vs placebo but plausibly related to doxazosin mesylate include: palpitations.

    Hypertension
    Doxazosin mesylate has been administered to approximately 4000 hypertensive patients in clinical trials, of whom 1679 were included in the hypertension clinical development program. In placebo-controlled studies, adverse events occurred in 49% and 40% of patients in the doxazosin and placebo groups, respectively, and led to discontinuation in 2% of patients in each group.

    Adverse reactions occurring more than 1% more frequently in hypertensive patients treated with doxazosin mesylate vs placebo are summarized in Table 1. Postural effects and edema appeared to be dose-related. The prevalence rates presented below are based on combined data from placebo-controlled studies involving once-daily administration of doxazosin at doses ranging from 1 to 16 mg.

    Table 2. Adverse Reactions Occurring more than 1% More Frequently in Hypertensive Patients Treated with Doxazosin Mesylate versus Placebo

    BODY SYSTEM

    Doxazosin Mesylate
    N=339

    Placebo
    N=336

     NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS

     Dizziness

     19%

     9%

     Somnolence

     5%

     1%

     RESPIRATORY, THORACIC AND MEDIASTINAL DISORDERS

     Rhinitis

     3%

     1%

     RENAL AND URINARY DISORDERS

     Polyuria

     2%

     0%

     REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM AND BREAST DISORDERS

     GENERAL DISORDERS AND ADMINISTRATION SITE CONDITIONS

     Fatigue / Malaise

     12%

     6%


    Other adverse reactions occurring less than 1% more frequently in hypertensive patients treated with doxazosin mesylate vs placebo but plausibly related to doxazosin mesylate use include vertigo, hypotension, hot flushes, epistaxis and oedema.

    Doxazosin mesylate has been associated with decreases in white blood cell counts

    Laboratory changes observed in clinical studies
    Leukopenia/Neutropenia: Decreases in mean white blood cell (WBC) and mean neutrophil count were observed in controlled clinical trials of hypertensive patients receiving doxazosin mesylate. In cases where follow-up was available, WBC and neutrophil counts returned to normal after discontinuation of doxazosin mesylate. No patients became symptomatic as a result of the low WBC or neutrophil counts.

    6.2 Postmarketing Experience

    The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of doxazosin mesylate. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

    In post-marketing experience, the following additional adverse reactions have been reported:
    Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: leukopenia, thrombocytopenia;
    Immune System Disorders: allergic reaction;
    Nervous System Disorders: hypoesthesia;
    Eye Disorders: Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)];
    Cardiac Disorders: bradycardia;
    Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders: bronchospasm aggravated;
    Gastrointestinal Disorders: vomiting;
    Hepatobiliary Disorders: cholestasis, hepatitis cholestatic;
    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: urticaria;
    Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: muscle cramps, muscle weakness;
    Renal and Urinary Disorders: hematuria, micturition disorder, micturition frequency, nocturia;
    Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: gynecomastia, priapism.

  • 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

    7.1 CYP 3A Inhibitors

    In vitro studies suggest that doxazosin is a substrate of CYP 3A4. Strong CYP3A inhibitors may increase exposure to doxazosin. Monitor blood pressure and for symptoms of hypotension when doxazosin mesylate is used concomitantly with strong CYP3A inhibitors [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

    7.2 Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors

    Concomitant administration of doxazosin mesylate with a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitor can result in additive blood pressure lowering effects and symptomatic hypotension. Monitor blood pressure and for symptoms of hypotension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

  • 8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

    8.1 Pregnancy

    Risk Summary
    The limited available data with doxazosin mesylate in pregnant women are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage. However, untreated hypertension during pregnancy can result in increased maternal risks [see Clinical Considerations]. In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental effects were observed when doxazosin was orally administered to pregnant rabbits and rats during the period of organogenesis at doses of up to 41 and 20 mg/kg, respectively (exposures in rabbits and rats were 10 and 4 times, respectively, the human AUC exposures with a 12 mg/day therapeutic dose). A dosage regimen of 82 mg/kg/day in the rabbit was associated with reduced fetal survival [see Data].

    The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.

    Clinical Considerations
    Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk
    Hypertension in pregnancy increases the maternal risk for pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, premature delivery, and delivery complications (e.g., need for cesarean section, and post-partum hemorrhage). Hypertension increases the fetal risk for intrauterine growth restriction and intrauterine death.

    Data
    Animal Data
    Radioactivity was found to cross the placenta following oral administration of labelled doxazosin to pregnant rats. Studies in pregnant rabbits and rats at daily oral doses of up to 41 and 20 mg/kg, respectively (plasma drug concentrations of 10 and 4 times, respectively, the human AUC exposures with a 12 mg/day therapeutic dose), have revealed no evidence of adverse developmental effects. A dosage regimen of 82 mg/kg/day in the rabbit was associated with reduced fetal survival. In peri- and postnatal studies in rats, postnatal development at maternal doses of 40 or 50 mg/kg/day of doxazosin (about 8 times human AUC exposure with a 12 mg/day therapeutic dose) was delayed, as evidenced by slower body weight gain and slightly later appearance of anatomical features and reflexes.

    8.2 Lactation

    Risk Summary
    There is limited information on the presence of doxazosin mesylate in human milk [see Data]. There is no information on the effects of doxazosin mesylate on the breastfeed infant or the effects on milk production.

    Data
    A single case study reports that doxazosin mesylate is present in human milk, which resulted in an infant dose of less than 1% of the maternal weight-adjusted dosage and a milk/plasma ratio of 0.1.  However, these data are insufficient to confirm the presence of doxazosin mesylate in human milk.

    8.4 Pediatric Use

    The safety and effectiveness of doxazosin mesylate have not been established in children.

    8.5 Geriatric Use

    Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
    The safety and effectiveness profile of doxazosin mesylate was similar in the elderly (age ≥ 65 years) and younger (age < 65 years) patients.

    Hypertension
    Clinical studies of doxazosin mesylate did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients.

    In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

    8.6 Hepatic Impairment

    Doxazosin mesylate is extensively metabolized in the liver. Hepatic impairment is expected to increase exposure to doxazosin. Use of doxazosin mesylate in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) is not recommended. Monitor blood pressure and for symptoms of hypotension in patients with lesser degrees of hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A and B) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

  • 10 OVERDOSAGE

    Experience with doxazosin mesylate overdosage is limited. Two adolescents, who each intentionally ingested 40 mg doxazosin mesylate tablets with diclofenac or acetaminophen, were treated with gastric lavage with activated charcoal and made full recoveries. A two-year-old child who accidently ingested 4 mg doxazosin mesylate was treated with gastric lavage and remained normotensive during the five-hour emergency room observation period. A six-month-old child accidentally received a crushed 1 mg tablet of doxazosin mesylate and was reported to have been drowsy. A 32-year-old female with chronic renal failure, epilepsy, and depression intentionally ingested 60 mg doxazosin mesylate (blood level = 0.9 mcg/mL; normal values in hypertensives = 0.02 mcg/mL); death was attributed to a grand mal seizure resulting from hypotension. A 39-year-old female who ingested 70 mg doxazosin mesylate, alcohol, and Dalmane® (flurazepam) developed hypotension which responded to fluid therapy.

    The oral LD50 of doxazosin is greater than 1000 mg/kg in mice and rats. The most likely manifestation of overdosage would be hypotension, for which the usual treatment would be intravenous infusion of fluid. As doxazosin is highly protein bound, dialysis would not be indicated.

  • 11 DESCRIPTION

    Doxazosin mesylate  is a quinazoline compound that is a selective inhibitor of the alpha1 subtype of alpha‑-adrenergic receptors. The chemical name of doxazosin mesylate is 1-(4-amino-6,7-dimethoxy-2-quinazolinyl)-4-(1,4‑ benzodioxan-2-ylcarbonyl) piperazine methanesulfonate. The empirical formula for doxazosin mesylate is C23H25N5O5 CH4O3S and the molecular weight is 547.6. It has the following structure:

    Image of the chemical structure of doxazosin mesylate.

    Doxazosin mesylate is freely soluble in dimethylsulfoxide, soluble in dimethylformamide, slightly soluble in methanol, ethanol, and water (0.8% at 25°C), and very slightly soluble in acetone and methylene chloride. Doxazosin mesylate is available as colored tablets for oral use and contains 1 mg (white), 2 mg (yellow), 4 mg (orange) and 8 mg (green) of doxazosin as the free base.

    The inactive ingredients for all tablets are: microcrystalline cellulose, NF; lactose, NF; sodium starch glycolate, NF; magnesium stearate, NF and sodium lauryl sulfate, NF. The 2 mg tablet contains D&C yellow #10 Aluminum Lake and FD&C yellow #6 Aluminum Lake; the 4 mg tablet contains FD&C yellow #6 Aluminum Lake; the 8 mg tablet contains FD&C blue #2 Aluminum Lake and D&C yellow #10 Aluminum Lake.

  • 12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

    12.1 Mechanism of Action

    Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
    The symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as urinary frequency, nocturia, weak stream, hesitancy, and incomplete emptying are related to two components, anatomical (static) and functional (dynamic). The static component is related to an increase in prostate size caused, in part, by a proliferation of smooth muscle cells in the prostatic stroma. However, the severity of BPH symptoms and the degree of urethral obstruction do not correlate well with the size of the prostate. The dynamic component of BPH is associated with an increase in smooth muscle tone in the prostate and bladder neck. The degree of tone in this area is mediated by the alpha1 adrenoceptor, which is present in high density in the prostatic stroma, prostatic capsule and bladder neck. Blockade of the alpha1 receptor decreases urethral resistance and may relieve the obstruction and BPH symptoms and improve urine flow.

    Hypertension
    The mechanism of action of doxazosin mesylate is selective blockade of the alpha1 (postjunctional) subtype of adrenergic receptors. Studies in normal human subjects have shown that doxazosin competitively antagonized the pressor effects of phenylephrine (an alpha1 agonist) and the systolic pressor effect of norepinephrine. Doxazosin and prazosin have similar abilities to antagonize phenylephrine. The antihypertensive effect of doxazosin mesylate results from a decrease in systemic vascular resistance. The parent compound doxazosin is primarily responsible for the antihypertensive activity. The low plasma concentrations of known active and inactive metabolites of doxazosin (2-piperazinyl, 6'- and 7'-hydroxy and 6- and 7-O-desmethyl compounds) compared to parent drug indicate that the contribution of even the most potent compound (6'-hydroxy) to the antihypertensive effect of doxazosin in man is probably small. The 6'- and 7'-hydroxy metabolites have demonstrated antioxidant properties at concentrations of 5 µM, in vitro.

    12.2 Pharmacodynamics

    Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
    Administration of doxazosin mesylate to patients with symptomatic BPH resulted in a statistically significant improvement in maximum urinary flow rate [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

    Effect on Normotensive Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
    Although blockade of alpha1 adrenoceptors also lowers blood pressure in hypertensive patients with increased peripheral vascular resistance, doxazosin mesylate treatment of normotensive men with BPH did not result in a clinically significant blood pressure lowering effect (Table 4). The proportion of normotensive patients with a sitting systolic blood pressure less than 90 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure less than 60 mmHg at any time during treatment with doxazosin mesylate 1–8 mg once daily was 6.7% with doxazosin and not significantly different (statistically) from that with placebo (5%).

    Hypertension
    Administration of doxazosin mesylate results in a reduction in systemic vascular resistance. In patients with hypertension, there is little change in cardiac output. Maximum reductions in blood pressure usually occur 2–6 hours after dosing and are associated with a small increase in standing heart rate. Like other alpha1-adrenergic blocking agents, doxazosin has a greater effect on blood pressure and heart rate in the standing position.

    12.3 Pharmacokinetics

    Absorption
    After oral administration of therapeutic doses, peak plasma levels of doxazosin mesylate occur at about 2–3 hours. Bioavailability is approximately 65%, reflecting first-pass metabolism of doxazosin by the liver. The effect of food on the pharmacokinetics of doxazosin mesylate was examined in a crossover study with twelve hypertensive subjects. Reductions of 18% in mean maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and 12% in the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) occurred when doxazosin mesylate was administered with food. Neither of these differences is clinically significant.

    In a crossover study in 24 normotensive subjects, the pharmacokinetics and safety of doxazosin were shown to be similar with morning and evening dosing regimens. The AUC after morning dosing was, however, 11% less than that after evening dosing and the time to peak concentration after evening dosing occurred significantly later than that after morning dosing (5.6 vs. 3.5 hours).

    Distribution
    At the plasma concentrations achieved by therapeutic doses, approximately 98% of the circulating drug is bound to plasma proteins.

    Metabolism
    Doxazosin mesylate is extensively metabolized in the liver, mainly by O-demethylation of the quinazoline nucleus or hydroxylation of the benzodioxan moiety. In vitro studies suggest that the primary pathway for elimination is via CYP 3A4; however, CYP 2D6 and CYP 2C9 metabolic pathways are also involved to a lesser extent. Although several active metabolites of doxazosin have been identified, the pharmacokinetics of these metabolites have not been characterized.

    Excretion
    Plasma elimination of doxazosin is biphasic, with a terminal elimination half-life of about 22 hours. Steady-state studies in hypertensive patients given doxazosin doses of 2 to 16 mg once daily showed linear kinetics and dose proportionality. In two studies, following the administration of 2 mg orally once daily, the mean accumulation ratios (steady-state AUC vs. first-dose AUC) were 1.2 and 1.7. Enterohepatic recycling is suggested by secondary peaking of plasma doxazosin concentrations.

    In a study of two subjects administered radiolabelled doxazosin 2 mg orally and 1 mg intravenously on two separate occasions, approximately 63% of the dose was eliminated in the feces and 9% of the dose was found in the urine. On average only 4.8% of the dose was excreted as unchanged drug in the feces and only a trace of the total radioactivity in the urine was attributed to unchanged drug.

    Specific Populations
    Geriatric
    The pharmacokinetics of doxazosin mesylate in young (<65 years) and elderly (≥65 years) subjects were similar for plasma half-life values and oral clearance.

    Renal Impairment
    Pharmacokinetic studies in elderly patients and patients with renal impairment have shown no significant alterations compared to younger patients with normal renal function.

    Hepatic Impairment
    Administration of a single 2 mg dose to patients with cirrhosis (Child-Pugh Class A) showed a 40% increase in exposure to doxazosin. The impact of moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) or severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of doxazosin is not known [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

    Drug Interactions
    There are only limited data on the effects of drugs known to influence the hepatic metabolism of doxazosin (e.g., cimetidine).

    Cimetidine: In healthy volunteers, the administration of a single 1 mg dose of doxazosin on day 1 of a four-day regimen of oral cimetidine (400 mg twice daily) resulted in a 10% increase in mean AUC of doxazosin, and a slight but not significant increase in mean Cmax and mean half-life of doxazosin.

    In vitro data in human plasma indicate that doxazosin mesylate has no effect on protein binding of digoxin, warfarin, phenytoin, or indomethacin.

  • 13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

    13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

    Carcinogenesis and Mutagenesis: Chronic dietary administration (up to 24 months) of doxazosin mesylate at maximally tolerated doses of 40 mg/kg/day in rats and 120 mg/kg/day in mice revealed no evidence of carcinogenic potential. The highest doses evaluated in the rat and mouse studies are associated with AUCs (a measure of systemic exposure) that are 8 times and 4 times, respectively, the human AUC at a dose of 16 mg/day.

    Mutagenicity studies revealed no drug- or metabolite-related effects at either chromosomal or subchromosomal levels. 

    Fertility in Males: Studies in rats showed reduced fertility in males treated with doxazosin at oral doses of 20 (but not 5 or 10) mg/kg/day, about 4 times the AUC exposures obtained with a 12 mg/day human dose. This effect was reversible within two weeks of drug withdrawal. There have been no reports of any effects of doxazosin on male fertility in humans.

    13.2 Animal Toxicology and Pharmacology

    An increased incidence of myocardial necrosis or fibrosis was observed in long-term (6-12 months) studies in rats and mice (exposure 8 times human AUC exposure in rats and somewhat equivalent to human Cmax exposure in mice). Findings were not seen at lower doses. In dogs no cardiotoxicity was observed following 12 months of oral dosing at doses that resulted in   maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) 14 times the Cmax exposure in humans receiving a 12 mg/day therapeutic dose or in Wistar rats at Cmax exposures 15 times human Cmax exposure. There is no evidence that similar lesions occur in humans.

  • 14 CLINICAL STUDIES

    14.1 Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

    The efficacy of doxazosin mesylate was evaluated extensively in over 900 patients with BPH in double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. Doxazosin mesylate treatment was superior to placebo in improving patient symptoms and urinary flow rate. Significant relief with doxazosin mesylate was seen as early as one week into the treatment regimen, with doxazosin mesylate-treated patients (N=173) showing a significant (p<0.01) increase in maximum flow rate of 0.8 mL/sec compared to a decrease of 0.5 mL/sec in the placebo group (N=41). In long-term studies, improvement was maintained for up to 2 years of treatment. In 66–71% of patients, improvements above baseline were seen in both symptoms and maximum urinary flow rate.

    In three placebo-controlled studies of 14–16 weeks’ duration, obstructive symptoms (hesitation, intermittency, dribbling, weak urinary stream, incomplete emptying of the bladder) and irritative symptoms (nocturia, daytime frequency, urgency, burning) of BPH were evaluated at each visit by patient-assessed symptom questionnaires. The bothersomeness of symptoms was measured with a modified Boyarsky questionnaire. Symptom severity/frequency was assessed using a modified Boyarsky questionnaire or an AUA-based questionnaire. Uroflowmetric evaluations were performed at times of peak (2–6 hours post-dose) and/or trough (24 hours post-dose) plasma concentrations of doxazosin mesylate.

    The results from the three placebo-controlled studies (N=609) showing significant efficacy with 4 mg and 8 mg doxazosin are summarized in Table 3. In all three studies, doxazosin mesylate resulted in statistically significant relief of obstructive and irritative symptoms compared to placebo. Statistically significant improvements of 2.3–3.3 mL/sec in maximum flow rate were seen with doxazosin mesylate in Studies 1 and 2, compared to 0.1–0.7 mL/sec with placebo.

    Table 3 SUMMARY OF EFFECTIVENESS DATA IN PLACEBO-CONTROLLED TRIALS

    In one fixed-dose study (Study 2), doxazosin mesylate therapy (4 to 8 mg, once daily) resulted in a significant and sustained improvement in maximum urinary flow rate of 2.3–3.3 mL/sec (Table 3) compared to placebo (0.1 mL/sec). In this study, the only study in which weekly evaluations were made, significant improvement with doxazosin mesylate vs. placebo was seen after one week. The proportion of patients who responded with a maximum flow rate improvement of ≥3 mL/sec was significantly larger with doxazosin mesylate (34–42%) than placebo (13–17%). A significantly greater improvement was also seen in average flow rate with doxazosin mesylate (1.6 mL/sec) than with placebo (0.2 mL/sec). The onset and time course of symptom relief and increased urinary flow from Study 1 are illustrated in Figure 1.

    Image of Figure 1-Study 1
    Image of Figure 1-Study 1

    14.2 Hypertension

    In a pooled analysis of placebo-controlled hypertension studies with about 300 hypertensive patients per treatment group, doxazosin, at doses of 1 to 16 mg given once daily, lowered blood pressure at 24 hours by about 10/8 mmHg compared to placebo in the standing position and about 9/5 mmHg in the supine position. Peak blood pressure effects (1–6 hours) were larger by about 50–75% (i.e., trough values were about 55–70% of peak effect), with the larger peak-trough differences seen in systolic pressures. There was no apparent difference in the blood pressure response of Caucasians and Blacks or of patients above and below age 65. In the same patient population, patients receiving doxazosin mesylate gained a mean of 0.6 kg compared to a mean loss of 0.1 kg for placebo patients.

    TABLE 4 Mean Changes in Blood Pressure from Baseline to the Mean of the Final Efficacy Phase in Normotensives (Diastolic BP <90 mmHg) in Two Double-blind, Placebo-controlled U.S. Studies with Doxazosin Mesylate 1 to 8 mg once daily.

     

    PLACEBO
    (N=85) 

    DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE
    (N=183)

    Sitting BP (mmHg) 

     Baseline

     Change

     Baseline

     Change

    Systolic

     128.4

     –1.4

     128.8

     –4.9*

    Diastolic

     79.2

     –1.2

     79.6

     –2.4*

    Standing BP (mmHg)

     Baseline

     Change

     Baseline

     Change

    Systolic

     128.5

     –0.6

     128.5

     –5.3*

    Diastolic

     80.5

     –0.7

     80.4

     –2.6*

    *p ≤0.05 compared to placebo
  • 16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

    Doxazosin mesylate tablets, USP are available as 1 mg, white tablet, oval shape, partially bisected on one side, debossed with "1" to the left and "mg" to the right of the partial bisection; and debossed with "ML-P16" on the other side; 2 mg, yellow tablet, oval shape, partially bisected on one side, debossed with "2" to the left and "mg" to the right of the partial bisection; and debossed with "ML-P17" on the other side; 4 mg, orange tablet, oval shape, partially bisected on one side, debossed with "4" to the left and "mg" to the right of the partial bisection; and debossed with "ML-P18" on the other side; and 8 mg, green tablet, oval shape, partially bisected on one side, debossed with "8" to the left and "mg" to the right of the partial bisection; and debossed with "ML-P19" on the other side.

    Bottles of 100:

    1 mg 

    NDC: 60429-953-01 

     

    2 mg

    NDC: 60429-954-01 

     

    4 mg

    NDC: 60429-955-01 

     

    8 mg

    NDC: 60429-956-01 

     

     

     

    Bottles of 1000:

    1 mg

    NDC: 60429-953-10

     

    2 mg

    NDC: 60429-954-10

     

    4 mg

    NDC: 60429-955-10

     

    8 mg

    NDC: 60429-956-10


    Store at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]

  • 17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

    Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information).

    Postural Hypotension
    Advise patients of the possibility of syncopal and orthostatic symptoms, especially at the initiation of therapy, and urged to avoid driving or hazardous tasks for 24 hours after the first dose, after a dosage increase, and after interruption of therapy when treatment is resumed. Advise patients to report symptoms to their healthcare provider.

    Priapism
    Advise patients of the possibility of priapism and to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur.

  • SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION

    All brand names listed are registered trademarks of their respective owners and are not trademarks of DAVA Pharmaceuticals. 

    Manufactured for:
    Dava Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
    Fort Lee, NJ 07024, USA

    Manufactured by:
    Patheon Puerto Rico, Inc.
    Manati, Puerto Rico 00674

    Marketed/ Packaged by:
    GSMS, Inc.
    Camarillo, CA 93012 USA

    Revised 6/2016
    APX1018/2

  • PATIENT PACKAGE INSERT

    PATIENT INFORMATION
    Doxazosin Mesylate (dox az' oh sin mes' i late) Tablets

    What are Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets?
    Doxazosin mesylate tablets are a prescription medicine that contains doxazosin mesylate and is called an “alpha-blocker”. Doxazosin mesylate tablets are used to treat:

    • the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
    • high blood pressure (hypertension)

    It is not known if doxazosin mesylate tablets are safe and effective in children.

    Who should not take Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets? 
    Do not take Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets if you:

    • are allergic to doxazosin, other quinazolines, or any of the ingredients in doxazosin mesylate tablets. See the end of this Patient Information leaflet for a complete list of ingredients in doxazosin mesylate tablets.

    What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets?
    Before taking Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

    • have had low blood pressure, especially after taking other medicine. Signs of low blood pressure include fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness.
    • have any planned eye surgery
    • have prostate cancer or a history of prostate cancer. Your healthcare provider may have you checked for prostate cancer before you start taking and while you take doxazosin mesylate tablets.
    • have liver problems
    • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if doxazosin mesylate tablets will harm your unborn baby.
    • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if doxazosin mesylate passes into your breastmilk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you take doxazosin mesylate tablets.

    Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Doxazosin mesylate tablets may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect the way doxazosin mesylate tablets works causing side effects.

    Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take:

    • other medicine for high blood pressuremedicine to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) called a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitor. The use of doxazosin mesylate tablets with PDE-5 inhibitors can lead to a drop in blood pressure or to fainting.

    Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

    How should I take Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets?

    • Take doxazosin mesylate tablets exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.
    • Your healthcare provider will tell you how much doxazosin mesylate tablets to take and when to take it.
    • Your healthcare provider may need to change your dose of doxazosin mesylate tablets until it is the right dose for you.

    What should I avoid while taking Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets?
    Do not drive or perform any hazardous task until at least 24 hours after you have taken doxazosin mesylate tablets if you are taking:

    • your first dose of doxazosin mesylate tablets
    • doxazosin mesylate tablets for the first time after your healthcare provider has increased your dose of doxazosin mesylate tablets
    • doxazosin mesylate tablets for the first time after any breaks (interruptions) in your treatment with doxazosin mesylate tablets

    What are the possible side effects of Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets? 
    Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets may cause serious side effects, including:

    • A sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when you first start treatment or when there is an increase in your dose of doxazosin mesylate tablets, is common but can also be serious. This may cause you to faint, or to feel dizzy or lightheaded. Your risk of having this problem may be increased if you take doxazosin mesylate tablets with certain other medicines that lower blood pressure including PDE-5 inhibitors. Your healthcare provider may monitor your blood pressure while you take doxazosin mesylate tablets. See “What should I avoid while taking doxazosin mesylate tablets?”
    • Eye problems during cataract surgery. A condition called Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) can happen during cataract surgery if you take or have taken alpha-blockers such as doxazosin mesylate tablets. If you need to have cataract surgery, be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you take or have taken doxazosin mesylate tablets.
    • A painful erection that will not go away. Doxazosin mesylate tablets can cause a painful erection (priapism), which cannot be relieved by having sex. If this happens, get medical help right away. If priapism is not treated, you may not be able to get an erection in the future.

    The most common side effects of doxazosin mesylate tablets are:

    • weakness or lack of energy (asthenia)
    • dizziness

    Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of doxazosin mesylate tablets. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

    Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

    General information about the safe and effective use of Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets.
    Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use doxazosin mesylate tablets for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give doxazosin mesylate tablets to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them.

    This Patient Information leaflet summarizes the most important information about doxazosin mesylate tablets. For more information, ask your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information that is written for healthcare professionals.

    What are the ingredients in Doxazosin Mesylate Tablets? 
    Active ingredient: doxazosin mesylate
    Inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, NF; lactose, NF; sodium starch glycolate, NF; magnesium stearate, NF and sodium lauryl sulfate, NF. The 2 mg tablet contains D&C yellow #10 Aluminum Lake and FD&C yellow #6 Aluminum Lake; the 4 mg tablet contains FD&C yellow #6 Aluminum Lake; the 8 mg tablet contains FD&C blue #2 Aluminum Lake and D&C yellow #10 Aluminum Lake.

    Manufactured for:
    Dava Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
    Fort Lee, NJ 07024, USA

    Manufactured by:
    Patheon Puerto Rico, Inc.
    Manati, Puerto Rico 00674, USA

    Marketed/ Packaged by:
    GSMS, Inc.
    Camarillo, CA 93012 USA

     This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

     Revised: 06/2016
  • Repackaging Information

    Please reference the How Supplied section listed above for a description of individual tablets. This drug product has been received by Aphena Pharma - TN in a manufacturer or distributor packaged configuration and repackaged in full compliance with all applicable cGMP regulations. The package configurations available from Aphena are listed below:

    Count2 mg4 mg8 mg
    9043353-739-6043353-740-6043353-646-60

    Store between 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). See USP Controlled Room Temperature. Dispense in a tight light-resistant container as defined by USP. Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children.

    Repackaged by:
    Aphena Pharma Solutions - TN
    Cookeville, TN 38506

    20171121JH

  • PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 2 mg

    NDC: 43353-739 - Doxazosin Mesylate 2 mg - Rx Only
    Bottle Label 2 mg

  • PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 4 mg

    NDC: 43353-740 - Doxazosin Mesylate 4mg - Rx Only
    Bottle Label 4 mg

  • PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 8 mg

    NDC: 43353-646 - Doxazosin Mesylate 8mg - Rx Only
    Bottle Label 8 mg

  • INGREDIENTS AND APPEARANCE
    DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE 
    doxazosin mesylate tablet
    Product Information
    Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC: 43353-739(NDC:60429-954)
    Route of AdministrationORAL
    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
    Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
    DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE (UNII: 86P6PQK0MU) (DOXAZOSIN - UNII:NW1291F1W8) DOXAZOSIN2 mg
    Inactive Ingredients
    Ingredient NameStrength
    MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE (UNII: OP1R32D61U)  
    SODIUM STARCH GLYCOLATE TYPE B POTATO (UNII: 27NA468985)  
    MAGNESIUM STEARATE (UNII: 70097M6I30)  
    SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (UNII: 368GB5141J)  
    D&C YELLOW NO. 10 (UNII: 35SW5USQ3G)  
    FD&C YELLOW NO. 6 (UNII: H77VEI93A8)  
    ALUMINUM OXIDE (UNII: LMI26O6933)  
    LACTOSE, UNSPECIFIED FORM (UNII: J2B2A4N98G)  
    Product Characteristics
    ColorYELLOWScore2 pieces
    ShapeOVALSize10mm
    FlavorImprint Code 2;mg;ML;P17
    Contains    
    Packaging
    #Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    1NDC: 43353-739-6090 in 1 BOTTLE; Type 0: Not a Combination Product07/20/2011
    Marketing Information
    Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    ANDAANDA07616107/20/2011
    DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE 
    doxazosin mesylate tablet
    Product Information
    Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC: 43353-740(NDC:60429-955)
    Route of AdministrationORAL
    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
    Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
    DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE (UNII: 86P6PQK0MU) (DOXAZOSIN - UNII:NW1291F1W8) DOXAZOSIN4 mg
    Inactive Ingredients
    Ingredient NameStrength
    MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE (UNII: OP1R32D61U)  
    SODIUM STARCH GLYCOLATE TYPE B POTATO (UNII: 27NA468985)  
    MAGNESIUM STEARATE (UNII: 70097M6I30)  
    SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (UNII: 368GB5141J)  
    FD&C YELLOW NO. 6 (UNII: H77VEI93A8)  
    ALUMINUM OXIDE (UNII: LMI26O6933)  
    LACTOSE, UNSPECIFIED FORM (UNII: J2B2A4N98G)  
    Product Characteristics
    ColorORANGEScore2 pieces
    ShapeOVALSize13mm
    FlavorImprint Code 4;mg;ML;P18
    Contains    
    Packaging
    #Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    1NDC: 43353-740-6090 in 1 BOTTLE; Type 0: Not a Combination Product07/20/2011
    Marketing Information
    Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    ANDAANDA07616107/20/2011
    DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE 
    doxazosin mesylate tablet
    Product Information
    Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC: 43353-646(NDC:60429-956)
    Route of AdministrationORAL
    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
    Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
    DOXAZOSIN MESYLATE (UNII: 86P6PQK0MU) (DOXAZOSIN - UNII:NW1291F1W8) DOXAZOSIN8 mg
    Inactive Ingredients
    Ingredient NameStrength
    MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE (UNII: OP1R32D61U)  
    SODIUM STARCH GLYCOLATE TYPE B POTATO (UNII: 27NA468985)  
    MAGNESIUM STEARATE (UNII: 70097M6I30)  
    SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (UNII: 368GB5141J)  
    FD&C BLUE NO. 2 (UNII: L06K8R7DQK)  
    D&C YELLOW NO. 10 (UNII: 35SW5USQ3G)  
    ALUMINUM OXIDE (UNII: LMI26O6933)  
    LACTOSE, UNSPECIFIED FORM (UNII: J2B2A4N98G)  
    Product Characteristics
    ColorGREENScore2 pieces
    ShapeOVALSize13mm
    FlavorImprint Code 8;mg;ML;P19
    Contains    
    Packaging
    #Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    1NDC: 43353-646-9090 in 1 BOTTLE; Type 0: Not a Combination Product07/20/2011
    Marketing Information
    Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    ANDAANDA07616107/20/2011
    Labeler - Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC (128385585)
    Establishment
    NameAddressID/FEIBusiness Operations
    Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC128385585REPACK(43353-739, 43353-740, 43353-646)
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