Prazosin Hydrochloride

Generic Details

Generic Name

Prazosin Hydrochloride

Other Names

  • Minipress

Drug Class

  • Alpha-1 adrenergic blocker

Chemical Formula

C19H22ClN5O4

Molecular Weight

383.86 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Blocks alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, leading to vasodilation and decreased blood pressure

Indications

  • Hypertension
  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (off-label)

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet

Typical Dosage

  • 1-2 mg orally 2-3 times daily initially, then titrated

Pediatric Dosage

  • Not established

Geriatric Dosage

  • Initiate therapy at the low end of the dosing range

Side Effects

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Palpitations

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to prazosin
  • Severe hypotension

Pregnancy Category

  • C - Risk cannot be ruled out

Lactation Safety

  • Use with caution, may be excreted in breast milk

Drug Interactions

  • Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors
  • Beta-blockers
  • Diuretics

Overdose Symptoms

  • Hypotension
  • Bradycardia
  • Lethargy

Antidote for Overdose

  • No specific antidote, symptomatic and supportive treatment

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
  • Distribution: Extensively distributed in the body
  • Metabolism: Primarily hepatic
  • Excretion: Excreted in urine and feces

Precautions

  • Monitor blood pressure closely during initial dosing and titration

Warnings

  • First-dose syncope may occur, especially with the first dose or following an increase in dose

Others

  • This medication may cause nightmares or vivid dreams, especially in the initial phase of therapy.