What is Minipress (Prazosin) prescribed for?

High Blood Pressure is when the force of blood presses against the walls of your arteries. When it’s too high, your heart has to work harder to pump blood to the rest of your body.  This in turn, can cause serious damage to your arteries.  By lowering it can prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

Prazosin, the active ingredient within Minipress, is a medication used with or without other medications to treat High Blood Pressure.  It belongs to a class of medications called alpha blockers, and it works by relaxing the widening blood vessels so blood fan flow at an easier pace.

This medication is to be taken by mouth, with or without food, and usually 2 to 3 times a day or as directed to you by your doctor.

Prazosin can on occasion cause a sudden fainting after the first dose, and at anytime in which your dose is increased. To reduce the risk of fainting, your first dose will be the smallest dose available. And you should take it as you are going to bed, which will decrease the possibility of fainting and thus hurting yourself in the process. You dose may be gradually increased over time.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Prazosin; or to other alpha blockers (such as doxazosin, terazosin); or to any other medications or allergies in general.

Before taking this medication, it is for the best to inform you doctor of you Medical history. Especially of; heart problems (such as low blood pressure), kidney disease, uncontrolled attacks of deep sleep (narcolepsy), prostate cancer, certain eye problems (cataracts, glaucoma).

To reduce the risk of dizziness and fainting, be careful when standing for long periods. Avoid getting overheated during exercise and hot weather. When first starting this drug, avoid situations where you may be injured if you faint.

Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication; they are as follows; Headache, drowsiness, tiredness, weakness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. However if any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away.

Lightheadedness or dizziness upon standing may also occur, especially after the first dose and shortly after taking a dose of the drug during the first week of treatment. To reduce the risk of dizziness and fainting, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position. If dizziness occurs, sit or lie down right away. Your dose may need to be adjusted.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: pounding heartbeat, fainting, frequent urination, mental/mood changes (such as depression), swelling of the feet/ankles.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.