Can I take Doxadura and Garlic supplements together?

Why this happens

Doxadura is an alpha-blocker used to lower blood pressure and treat prostate issues. Garlic supplements have natural blood-pressure-lowering properties. When used together, their effects can add up (an additive effect), causing an excessive drop in blood pressure.

What you should do

Use caution when combining these two. If you decide to take garlic supplements, monitor your blood pressure regularly. Be careful when standing up quickly. If you feel very dizzy or faint, stop the supplement and speak to your GP or pharmacist. It is best to inform your doctor before starting any new herbal supplements while on blood pressure medication.

Important precautions

First-dose hypotension

Doxadura can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially after the very first dose. This may make you feel dizzy or faint when standing up. It is recommended to take your first dose at bedtime to avoid falls.

Surgery

Both garlic supplements and Doxadura can increase the risk of bleeding or affect blood pressure during surgery. You must stop taking garlic supplements at least two weeks before any planned surgical or dental procedure.

Cataract surgery

If you are due to have eye surgery for cataracts, you must tell your surgeon you are taking Doxadura. It can cause a complication called 'Floppy Iris Syndrome' which the surgeon needs to prepare for.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking Doxadura. Alcohol can increase the blood-pressure-lowering effect of this medicine, which may make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, especially when standing up.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking garlic supplements. Both garlic and alcohol can have blood-thinning effects; combining them may increase your risk of bruising or bleeding. Additionally, alcohol can irritate the stomach lining, which may worsen the digestive side effects sometimes caused by garlic.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.