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What is terazosin
 Terazosin
is in a class of drugs called alpha-adrenergic blockers. Terazosin
causes the blood vessels (veins and arteries) to relax and
expand, which allows blood to pass more easily through them.
Terazosin
is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Terazosin
is also used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged
prostate). It relaxes the muscles in the prostate and bladder
neck, making it easier to urinate.
Terazosin
may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.
General medical information about terazosin
To avoid falling, take the first dose of terazosin
at bedtime. Terazosin may cause dizziness. It is a good
idea to take every dose at bedtime, if possible.
Use caution when you stand or sit up from a lying position,
especially if you wake up during the night. Dizziness may
occur when changing positions.
Do not stop taking
terazosin suddenly, even if you feel better. Stopping suddenly
could cause your blood pressure to increase.
What you should find out before taking
terazosin
Before taking terazosin, tell your doctor if you
have kidney or liver disease. You may need a dosage adjustment
or special monitoring during therapy with terazosin.
Terazosin is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means
that it is not known whether terazosin will be harmful to
an unborn baby. Do not take terazosin without first talking
to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant
during treatment.
It is not known whether terazosin
passes into breast milk. Do not take terazosin without first
talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should take terazosin Take terazosin exactly as directed by your doctor.
If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist,
nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each
dose with a full glass of water.
To avoid falling,
take the first dose of terazosin at bedtime. Terazosin may
cause dizziness. It is a good idea to take every dose at
bedtime, if possible.
Use caution when you stand
or sit up from a lying position, especially if you wake
up during the night. Dizziness may occur when changing positions.
Do not stop taking terazosin suddenly, even if you
feel better. Stopping suddenly could cause your blood pressure
to increase.
Store terazosin at room temperature
away from moisture and heat.
If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you
missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose.
Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double dose
could cause your blood pressure to become severely low.
If you miss doses for several days in a row, call
your doctor before taking any additional doses. Treatment
may need to be restarted with a lower dose.
What happens if you overdose: Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms
of a terazosin overdose include weakness, dizziness, and
fainting; a weak, fast pulse; cold, clammy skin; and possible
loss of consciousness or coma.
Avoid while taking terazosin Avoid alcohol while taking terazosin. Alcohol may
cause drowsiness or severely low blood pressure while taking
terazosin.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery,
or performing other hazardous activities until you know
how the medication affects you. Terazosin may cause dizziness
or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness,
avoid these activities.
Avoid becoming overheated
in hot weather and during exercise. Low blood pressure,
dizziness, and fainting could result.
Possible side effects of terazosin If you experience any of the following serious side
effects, stop taking terazosin and seek emergency medical
attention or contact your doctor immediately:
- an
allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the
throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- fast heartbeats;
- shortness of breath or
chest pain;
- a prolonged or painful erection; or
- a rash.
Other, less serious side effects
may be more likely to occur. Continue to take terazosin
and talk to your doctor if you experience
- vivid
dreams;
- dizziness or drowsiness;
- weakness,
fatigue, or a feeling of not being well;
- nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, or decreased
appetite;
- fluid retention or slight weight gain;
- joint or muscle aches;
- headache, irritability,
or depression;
- increased urination;
- decreased
sex drive; or
- numbness or tingling in the hands,
feet, arms, or legs.
Side effects other than those
listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any
side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect terazosin
Talk
to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription
or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal supplements
during treatment with terazosin. |
