MINIPRESS (PRAZOSIN HCL)

Minipress Description

Minipress is a prescription drug known as an alpha-adrenergic blocker that your doctor may prescribe to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Unless your hypertension is severe, there are very few symptoms or signs to indicate that you are at risk for a heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease. Diagnosis usually occurs as a result of a regular exam when your doctor will determine if a prescription for Minipress is required. It may be decided to also prescribe a diuretic (water-pill) to take with Minipress to help reduce any fluid retention.

Changing to a healthier lifestyle with a proper diet, exercising to lose weight and kicking your smoking habit can greatly reduce your blood pressure. However, it does not help everyone and that is why you may need to take Minipress or generic Prazosin HCl long-term. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How This Alpha-Adrenergic Blocker Works

When taken as directed, Minipress blocks the action of certain nerve impulses which relaxes the muscles surrounding your blood vessels and arteries. This allows a better flow of blood to your heart and other organs and tissues without any force that can cause permanent damage. There is no cure for hypertension, but taking Minipress as directed is an important step to reducing your risk of heart or kidney disease.

Conditions Treated with Minipress

Unless treatment is carried out as instructed by your physician, the force of the blood flow in your arteries is such that microscopic tears occur and scar tissue forms. This provides the perfect place for cholesterol and fat particles, collectively called plaque, to accumulate. This causes even more pressure in your arteries as the pathway for blood to flow becomes narrower and your heart is straining to send oxygenated-rich blood to the rest of your body. Minipress can help relax muscles to allow room for blood to flow, but it will not cure hypertension. Minipress is a medication that will do its part to reduce other health risks, but you must do your part as well.

Before You Take Minipress

If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding, inform your doctor before taking Minipress in case there are possible health risks to your unborn or nursing baby. Tell your doctor about other medical problems you have and provide information on any over the counter or Rx medications you are on, including dietary and vitamin supplements or herbal remedies as you could experience unintended interactions when taken in combination with Minipress.

Precautions for Minipress

Minipress can cause dizziness or fainting so avoid performing tasks that may be considered unsafe, such as driving a vehicle. Alcohol, hot weather, having a fever, and other medications could intensify this effect. Inform your surgeon or dentist that you are taking Minipress if you are expecting to undergo any procedures as you may need to stop taking Minipress for a short time. Keep all medications out of children’s reach and never share them with anyone else.

Possible Side Effects of Minipress

• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Weakness
• Drowsiness