Prazosin Hydrochloride



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



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.

Jul 21, 2016 | Posted by in NURSING | Comments Off on Prazosin Hydrochloride

Full access? Get Clinical Tree

Get Clinical Tree app for offline access