Hytrin

Generic name: Terazosin hydrochloride

What is Hytrin?

Hytrin is used alone or in combination with other drugs to treat high blood pressure. Hytrin is also used to relieve the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH (an enlargement of the prostate gland surrounding the urinary canal).

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

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

Who should not take Hytrin?

Do not take Hytrin if you are sensitive to it or have ever had an allergic reaction to it.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Hytrin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver disease.

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.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Adults: The usual starting dose is 1 milligram (mg) taken at bedtime. Your doctor will gradually increase the dose to 10 mg, taken once a day for at least 4 to 6 weeks.

If you stop taking Hytrin for several days or longer, your doctor will restart your treatment with 1 mg at bedtime.

High Blood Pressure

Adults: The usual starting dose is 1 mg at bedtime. Your doctor may slowly increase the dose until your blood pressure has been lowered sufficiently. The usual recommended dosage range is 1-5 mg taken once or twice a day. Some people may require doses as high as 20-40mg per day.

How should I take Hytrin?

Take Hytrin with or without food. Take your first dose at bedtime.

What should I avoid while taking Hytrin?

Hytrin can cause fainting or low blood pressure, especially at the start of therapy. Avoid driving and performing hazardous tasks for 12 hours after the first dose, after a dosage increase, or if your therapy is interrupted then resumed.

Avoid becoming overheated in hot weather and during exercise. Low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting could result.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Hytrin?

If Hytrin 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 Hytrin with: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen and naproxen, and other blood pressure medications such as enalapril, hydrochlorothiazide, or verapamil.

What are the possible side effects of Hytrin?

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: difficult or labored breathing, dizziness, headache, heart palpitations, light-headedness upon standing, nausea, pain in the arms and legs, sleepiness, stuffy nose, weakness

Hytrin has been associated with rare cases of priapism (painful penile erection lasting for hours). Seek medical attention right away because priapism can lead to permanent impotence if it is not treated.

Can I receive Hytrin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Hytrin during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while you are taking Hytrin.

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

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Hytrin?

Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Protect from light.