Prazosin Description

Generic Name : PRAZOSIN

Pronunciation : (pra' zoe sin)

Trade Name(s) : Minipress XL GITS, Prazopress

Why it is prescribed: Prazosin controls high blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through the body. It also has been used, with other medication, to treat heart failure.

When it is to be taken: Prazosin is usually taken three times a day at evenly spaced intervals e.g., when you wake up, in the afternoon, and at bedtime. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor to explain any part that you do not understand. This medication controls but does not cure high blood pressure and heart failure. Therefore, it is important that you take this medication regularly. You may have to take prazosin for four to six weeks before feeling its full effects.

How it should be taken: Prazosin comes in form of capsules. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose.

Special Instruction :
1. Prazosin can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting, especially after the first dose. Lie down for at least one hour and get up slowly after the first dose.
2. Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how prazosin affects you.
3. Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly. Do not stop taking prazosin without consulting your doctor.
4. If you forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if you remember a missed dose at the time you are scheduled to take the next one, take only one dose. Do not take a double dose.

Side Effects :
1. Drowsiness, headache, weakness, palpitations. These effects usually disappear after the first few weeks of therapy. If they are severe or persist, contact your doctor.
2. Sudden fainting. Warn your family and friends to contact your doctor if you faint at any time other than after the first dose.
3. Dizziness, stomach pain, nausea. Take prazosin with food.
4. Chest pain, shortness of breath. Contact your doctor.

Other Precautions :
1. Before you take prazosin, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking.
2. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease or narcolepsy.
3. If you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, inform your doctor.
4. Before having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor that you are taking prazosin.

Storage Conditions : Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children.