Brand name: PRAZOPRESS ((Minipress, Prazosin, Prazosin)
Pronounced: MIN-ee-press
Generic name: Prazosin hydrochloride
Why is PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) prescribed?

PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) is used to treat high blood pressure. It is effective used alone or with other high blood pressure medications such as diuretics or beta-blocking medications (drugs that ease heart contractions) such as Tenormin.

PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) is also prescribed for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an abnormal enlargement of the prostate gland.
Most important fact about PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin)

If you have high blood pressure, you must take PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin); and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin)?

PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) can be taken with or without food.

This medication should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor even if your symptoms have disappeared. Try not to miss any doses. If PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) is not taken regularly, your blood pressure will increase.

If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

Storage instructions...

Protect from heat, light, and moisture.
PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin).

* Side effects may include:
Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, lack of energy, nausea, palpitations (pounding heartbeat), weakness

Why should PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) not be prescribed?

Avoid PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) if it, or similar drugs such as Cardura and Hytrin, give you an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin)

PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) can cause low blood pressure, especially when you first start taking PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin). This can cause you to become faint, dizzy, or light-headed, particularly on standing up. You should avoid driving or any hazardous tasks where injury could occur for 24 hours after taking the first dose or after your dose has been increased. Dizziness, fainting, or light-headedness may also occur in hot weather, when exercising, or when standing for long periods of time. Ask your doctor what precautions you should take.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin)

PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) can intensify the effects of alcohol. Be careful of the amount you drink.

If PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important that you check with your doctor before combining PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) with the following:

Beta blockers such as Inderal
Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
Diuretics such as Dyazide
Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, others)
Other high blood pressure medications
Verapamil (Calan, Verelan)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) appears in breast milk and can affect a nursing infant. If PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.
Recommended dosage for PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin)

ADULTS
Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect a PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) overdose, seek medical treatment immediately.

* The symptoms of PRAZOPRESS (Minipress, Prazosin) overdose may include:
Extreme drowsiness, low blood pressure