Prazosin Hydrochloride(pra’ zoe sin)
Apo-Prazo (CAN), Minipress, Novo-Prazin (CAN)
PREGNANCY CATEGORY C
Drug Classes
Alpha-adrenergic blocker
Antihypertensive
Therapeutic Actions
Selectively blocks postsynaptic alpha1-adrenergic receptors, decreasing sympathetic tone on the vasculature, dilating arterioles and veins, and lowering supine and standing BP; unlike conventional alpha-adrenergic blocking agents (eg, phentolamine), it does not block alpha2 presynaptic receptors, so it does not cause reflex tachycardia.
Indications
Treatment of hypertension, alone or in combination with other agents
Unlabeled uses: Management of Raynaud vasospasm, pediatric hypertension, BPH, PTSD
Contraindications and Cautions
Contraindicated with hypersensitivity to prazosin, doxazosin, terazosin, lactation.
Use cautiously with HF, angina pectoris, ocular surgery, prostate cancer, renal failure, pregnancy.
Available Forms
Capsules—1, 2, 5 mg
Dosages
Warning First dose may cause syncope with sudden loss of consciousness. First dose should be limited to 1 mg PO and given at bedtime.Dosages
Adults
Initial dosage is 1 mg PO bid–tid. Increase dosage to a total of 20 mg/day given in divided doses. When increasing dosage, give the first dose of each increment at bedtime. Maintenance dosages most commonly range from 6–15 mg/day given in divided doses.
Concomitant therapy: When adding a diuretic or other antihypertensive drug, reduce dosage to 1–2 mg PO tid and then re-adjust.
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