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Prazosin (Oral Route)
Drug Information provided by: MicromedexUS Brand Names
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Description
Prazosin belongs to the general class of medicines called antihypertensives. It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
High blood pressure adds to the work load of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled.
Prazosin works by relaxing blood vessels so that blood passes through them more easily. This helps to lower blood pressure.
Prazosin may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Prazosin is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Once a medicine has been approved for marketing for a certain use, experience may show that it is also useful for other medical problems. Although these uses are not included in product labeling, prazosin is used in certain patients with the following medical conditions:
- Congestive heart failure
- Ergot alkaloid poisoning
- Pheochromocytoma
- Raynaud's disease
- Benign enlargement of the prostate
For patients taking this medicine for benign enlargement of the prostate:
- Prazosin will not shrink the size of your prostate, but it does help to relieve the symptoms.
This product is available in the following dosage forms:
- Capsule
- Tablet
