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General Medication Fact Sheet for Prazosin
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Prazosin |
| Brand Name Versions | Minipress |
| Boxed/Label Warning | None |
| Purpose | Treats high blood pressure and symptoms of enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH) |
| Mechanism of Action | Alpha-1 adrenergic blocker, relaxes blood vessels and prostate muscles |
| Dosage Forms | Oral capsules |
| Available Strengths | 1 mg, 2 mg, 5 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically two or three times daily, as directed by a healthcare provider |
| Common Side Effects | Dizziness, headache, drowsiness, weakness |
| Serious Side Effects | Fainting, irregular heartbeat, prolonged dizziness |
| Drug Interactions | Other blood pressure medications, PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil), alcohol |
| Important Notes | Take the first dose at bedtime to minimize dizziness; change positions slowly to avoid dizziness or fainting; avoid alcohol |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember; skip if it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Terazosin, Doxazosin, Tamsulosin, Amlodipine |
Prazosin Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Terazosin (Hytrin) | Alpha-1 adrenergic blocker | Used to treat high blood pressure and BPH. |
| Doxazosin (Cardura) | Alpha-1 adrenergic blocker | Similar to Terazosin, used for hypertension and BPH. |
| Tamsulosin (Flomax) | Alpha-1A adrenergic blocker | Primarily used to treat BPH, with less effect on blood pressure. |
| Amlodipine (Norvasc) | Calcium channel blocker | Used to treat high blood pressure and angina. |
Prazosin Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Dizziness | Fainting |
| Headache | Irregular heartbeat |
| Drowsiness | Prolonged dizziness |
| Weakness | Priapism (rare, prolonged erection) |
| Nasal congestion | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
Prazosin Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hypertension | 1 mg two or three times daily | 6-15 mg daily in divided doses | Take the first dose at bedtime. |
| BPH | 1 mg two times daily | 2-5 mg two times daily | Adjust dose based on individual response. |
| Nightmares related to PTSD | 1 mg at bedtime | 1-15 mg at bedtime | Consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing. |
