Final answer:
Doxazosin (Cardura) is an alpha 1 blocker that works by blocking the alpha 1-adrenergic receptors, leading to smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation. This helps to lower blood pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Doxazosin (Cardura) is an alpha 1 blocker, which means it works by blocking the alpha 1-adrenergic receptors in the body. When these receptors are blocked, a cascade of events is initiated. Normally, activation of the alpha 1-adrenergic receptor by norepinephrine leads to smooth muscle contraction, vasoconstriction, and other effects. However, when Doxazosin blocks these receptors, it prevents their activation and inhibits smooth muscle contraction, leading to vasodilation. This helps to lower blood pressure and relieve symptoms of conditions such as hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia.