Prazosin can be used with or without other medications to help remedy high blood pressure levels. Lowering high blood pressure helps in avoiding strokes, strokes, and kidney problems.
Prazosin is assigned to a class of medications called alpha blockers. It works by relaxing and widening veins so blood can flow quicker.
OTHER USES: This section contains uses with this drug which are not placed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but which might be prescribed because of your health care professional. Use this drug for any condition that's classified by this only when it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug could also be used to help remedy certain blood circulation disorders (Raynaud's phenomenon). Prazosin may also be used to take care of problems urinating because of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) as well as to help the body "pass," or remove, kidney stones through urination.
Take prescription drugs by mouth with or without food, usually several times daily or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, take with food or milk. The dosage is based on how old you are, medical condition and reaction to therapy.
Prazosin will often cause sudden fainting following the first dose and anytime that your particular dose is increased. To reduce your likelihood of fainting, the 1st dose prescribed from your doctor may be the smallest dose available. You should take this first dose when you are going to sleep. This will reduce the potential for fainting. Your dose could be gradually increased. Take your first new dose at night when your dose is increased unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
Use medicines regularly to get one of the most benefit from it. To help you remember, go at the same time(s) every day. If you are taking prescription drugs for high blood pressure, it is very important continue taking it even though you feel well. Most people with blood pressure usually do not feel sick. It may take around weeks prior to full benefit of the drug takes effect.
Do not stop taking medicines without first consulting your doctor. Some conditions can be worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose might need to be gradually decreased.
Tell your medical professional if your condition worsens (for example your routine hypertension readings increase).
Headache, drowsiness, tiredness, weakness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or worsen, tell your medical professional or pharmacist promptly.
Lightheadedness or dizziness upon standing might also occur, especially following the first dose and very quickly after going for a dose in the drug during the initial week of treatment. To decrease the risk of dizziness and fainting, get up slowly when rising from the seated or lying position. If dizziness occurs, sit or lie down right away. Your dose should be adjusted.
Remember that your particular doctor has prescribed this medication as he or she's got judged how the profit to you is higher than the chance of unwanted effects. Many people using prescription drugs do not have serious unwanted side effects.
Tell your doctor without delay if these unlikely but serious unwanted side effects occur: pounding heartbeat, fainting, frequent urination, mental/mood changes (for example depression), swelling in the feet/ankles.
For males, in the most unlikely event there is a painful, prolonged erection (lasting a lot more than 4 hours), stop using this drug and seek immediate medical attention, or permanent problems could occur.
A serious hypersensitivity to the drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you see any the signs of a serious hypersensitivity, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially in the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible unwanted side effects. If you notice other effects unlisted above, contact a medical expert or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your physician for medical advice about unwanted effects. You may report negative effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your medical professional for medical health advice about unwanted side effects. You may report negative effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Before taking prazosin, tell your medical professional or pharmacist if you're allergic with it; as well as to other alpha blockers (such as doxazosin, terazosin); or if you've some other allergies. This product could have inactive ingredients, that may cause allergy symptoms or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more information.
Before using this medication, tell a medical expert or pharmacist your health background, especially of: cardiovascular disease (such as low blood pressure levels), kidney disease, uncontrolled attacks of deep sleep (narcolepsy), cancer of prostate, certain eye problems (cataracts, glaucoma).
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that needs alertness or clear vision and soon you are sure you are able to perform such activities safely. Do not drive or participate in hazardous activities every day and night after the first dose, any increase in your dosage, or restarting treatment. If your physician prescribes any other blood pressure drugs, avoid driving and hazardous activities for 24 hours after the first dose with the new medication. Limit alcohol consumption.
To slow up the risk of dizziness and fainting, take care when standing for very long stretches. Avoid getting overheated during exercise and hot weather. When beginning this drug, avoid situations in places you could possibly be injured in case you faint.
Before having surgery (including cataract/glaucoma eye surgery), tell a medical expert or dentist if you are taking or have ever taken prescription drugs, leading to other products you employ (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Older adults may be more sensitive towards the unwanted effects of the drug, especially dizziness and fainting. These side effects can raise the chance of falling.
During pregnancy, prescription drugs needs to be used not until clearly needed. Discuss the hazards and benefits with a medical expert.
Prazosin passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
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