Prazosin
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Prazosin
Prazosin is an alpha adrenergic blocking class of drug. It acts by causing dilatation (by blocking the alpha receptors present in the blood vessels and not allowing them to constrict) of blood vessels (arteries and veins) and by allowing more blood to pass more easily through them.
Therapeutic Uses of Prazosin
Prazosin is used in treatment of high blood pressure or hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Direction of use of Prazosin
Prazosin is taken orally with food or without food or you should follow the instructions given by your doctor. If you have any question about Prazosin you should ask your doctor or other health care provider.
If You Miss a Dose of Prazosin
If you miss a dose of Prazosin, you should take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Never take 2 doses of Prazosin at a time without asking your doctor.
How to Store Prazosin
Prazosin should be stored at temperature 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store it away from heat, moisture, and light and keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in your bathroom.
More Information About Prazosin
Prazosin is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed and it should not be shared with other people. If you do not get any improvement in your symptoms or if they become worse, consult your doctor.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Prazosin
Do not take Prazosin if you have any of the medical conditions listed below and consult your doctor immediately:
- If you have allergy to any of the ingredients of Prazosin.
- If you are taking modafinil.
Important notes about Prazosin:
- Prazosin may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting etc. after the first dose. To prevent these effects the first dose should be taken at bedtime. If you get up during the night, sit up and stand slowly. Sit up and stand slowly while you are taking Prazosin.
- As Prazosin can cause dizziness, fainting etc. you should not drive or perform activities which require constant attention and monitoring and also risky, like driving or operating heavy machinery till you know that you do not have these side effects with it.
- You should avoid any hazardous tasks for at least 24 hours after taking the first dose or after missing several doses or after increasing the dose, or after taking other medications for hypertension.
- Pregnancy and breast feeding: Do not take Prazosin if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of using Prazosin during pregnancy.
- Prazosin is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast feeding while you use Prazosin, you should ask your doctor about any possible risks to your baby.
- You may feel tired or run down for a few weeks after starting treatment with Prazosin. Be sure to take your medicine even if you may not feel normal. Tell your doctor if you develop any new symptoms after starting Prazosin.
- Alcohol should be avoided during treatment with Prazosin. If you drink alcohol regularly you should consult your doctor.
Possible Adverse Effects of Prazosin
- Consult your doctor if you get any of the common and minor side effects of Prazosin, and they become bothersome or persistent. The common side effects of Prazosin are headache, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, flushing, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, constipation; depression, nervousness; feeling of a whirling motion (vertigo); frequent passing of urine, lack of energy, weakness; nasal congestion, nosebleed, stuffy nose etc.
- Get immediate medical attention if you experience any of the serious and uncommon side effects of Prazosin. Serious side effects of Prazosin are severe allergic reactions (manifested by skin rash, itching, difficulty in breathing, tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat); blurring of vision; fainting; pounding heartbeat; puffiness in hands or feet; rapid heartbeat or palpitation etc.