Products
Prazosin is commercially available in some countries in tablet form. It is no longer approved in many countries.
Structure and properties
Prazosin (C19H21N5O4, Mr = 383.4 g/mol) is a quinazoline derivative. It is present in drugs as prazosin hydrochloride, a white crystalline substance that is sparingly soluble in water.
Effects
Prazosin (ATC C02CA01) is vasodilator and antihypertensive. The effects are due to selective antagonism at alpha1 receptors.
Indications
For the treatment of high blood pressure (essential hypertension).
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Initiation of therapy is gradual. The drug is usually taken two to three times daily because of its short half-life of 2.5 to 4 hours.
Contraindications
Prazosin is contraindicated in hypersensitivity, certain manifestations of heart failure, and in the first trimester of pregnancy. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Other antihypertensive and vasodilator agents may cause increased lowering of blood pressure.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include a drop in blood pressure and low blood pressure.
