Uses of Prazosin

Prazosin is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure (a condition in which heart doesn’t pump blood well), Raynaud’s disease (painful cold fingers), and prostatic hyperplasia (mild enlargement of prostate gland) in men.

Therapeutic Category

Prazosin: Alpha-Blockers.

How Prazosin works

Prazosin reduces the blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood that pass easily without any obstruction. It reduces the chances of heart failure by acting on the main blood vessel, thus allowing the heart to pump blood productively. It treats Raynaud’s disease (painful cold fingers) by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can reach the fingers and   promotes circulation thereby prevents fingers being cold and stiff. Prazosin also treats prostatic hyperplasia (mild enlargement of prostate gland) by relaxing the muscles of bladder and prostate gland and thus promotes easy passage of urine.

Common side effects of Prazosin

• fainting and dizziness especially on standing up
• headache, drowsiness, or weakness
• palpitations (irregular beating of heart)
• nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhoea
• lack of energy
• depression or nervousness
• dry mouth
• nasal stuffiness
• blurred vision
• shortness of breath or rash
• swelling of the feet, ankles or leg
• increased frequency of urination

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• in case of accidental overdosage

Health Tips for Prazosin

• Prazosin can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness or fainting, especially when getting up from a lying or sitting position. Take caution and rise slowly to avoid injury. If you experience dizziness, sit or lie down until it subsides
• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Prazosin as it may increase the risk of dizziness and low blood pressure
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, reducing salt intake, exercising regularly and avoiding smoking