Minipress

Generic name: Prazosin hydrochloride

What is Minipress?

Minipress is a prescription medication that lowers blood pressure in patients with high blood pressure. Minipress can be taken alone or along with other blood pressure-lowering medications.

What is the most important information I should know about Minipress?

If you have high blood pressure, you must take Minipress regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Minipress; and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Minipress does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.

Minipress may cause fainting and/or rapid heart rate with a sudden loss of consciousness. Your chances of experiencing loss of consciousness are increased if you are also taking other medications for high blood pressure. This side effect can be minimized by taking a low initial dose and slowly increasing your dose to allow your body to become accustomed to Minipress. Commonly, dizziness, drowsiness, or fainting can occur after taking the first dose, especially when rising from a lying or sitting position. If you drink alcohol, are exposed to a hot environment, or are standing for a long time, your chances of experiencing these side effects with the first dose are increased.

Who should not take Minipress?

You should not take Minipress if you are allergic or sensitive to Minipress or any of its ingredients. You should also not take Minipress if you are allergic to a type of medication known as a quinazoline.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Minipress?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Minipress. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are taking other medications used to treat high blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual starting dose is 1 milligram (mg) taken 2 or 3 times daily. Your doctor may slowly increase your individual dose up to 20mg, taken in divided doses, based on your condition.

How should I take Minipress?

Minipress should be taken at the same time every day and may be taken with or without food.

What should I avoid while taking Minipress?

You should avoid excessive exposure to hot environments, standing for prolonged periods of time, becoming dehydrated, and drinking alcohol.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Minipress?

If Minipress is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Minipress with the following:

Diuretics ("water pills")

Other medications used to treat high blood pressure such as propranolol

What are the possible side effects of Minipress?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, irregular heartbeats, lack of energy, nausea, weakness

Can I receive Minipress if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Minipress during pregnancy are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Minipress has been shown to be excreted in breast milk, so you should talk to your doctor about taking this medication if you are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Minipress?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the dose you missed and take your next regular dose. Do not double your dose.

How should I store Minipress?

Minipress should be stored at room temperature away from light.