Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Prazosin is prescribed either as monotherapy or in combination with other medications for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure), with the aim of mitigating the risks of stroke, myocardial infarction, and renal complications. This drug belongs to the class of alpha blockers, which function by inducing relaxation and dilation of blood vessels to facilitate smoother blood flow.
Uses and Dosage
Administer this medication orally, with or without food, in accordance with your physician’s instructions, typically two to three times daily.
In case of gastrointestinal distress, ingest with food or milk. Dosage is contingent upon age, medical status, and response to treatment.
Prazosin may provoke sudden loss of consciousness following initial or escalated doses. In order to minimize the likelihood of fainting, the minimum available dose will be prescribed for the initial dose, which should be taken before bedtime. Subsequent doses may be gradually increased. When receiving a dose escalation, take the first new dose before going to bed unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
Consistent usage of this medication will yield optimal results. To aid in recollection, consume it at the same time(s) every day.
If using this medication to manage high blood pressure, continue to take it even if you feel well. Most individuals with high blood pressure do not exhibit symptoms. It may require several weeks to observe the full therapeutic effect of this medication.
Do not discontinue use without first consulting your physician. Abrupt cessation of this medication may exacerbate certain conditions. Gradual dosage reduction may be required.
Notify your physician if your condition deteriorates (such as an increase in routine blood pressure readings).
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- weakness
- tiredness
- headache
- nausea
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- hives
- rash
- itching
- difficulty breathing
- fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
- chest pain
- painful erection of the penis that lasts for hours
Caution
Prior to taking prazosin, inform your physician or pharmacist of any allergies you may have to prazosin, other alpha blockers (such as doxazosin, terazosin), or any other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other complications.
Prior to initiating therapy, discuss your medical history with your physician or pharmacist, particularly any heart issues, renal disease, uncontrollable episodes of deep sleep (narcolepsy), prostate cancer, or certain ocular conditions (cataracts, glaucoma).
This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Alcohol or marijuana may increase these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or performing tasks that require alertness or clear vision until you can do so safely. Do not engage in driving or hazardous activities for 24 hours after the initial dose, any dose escalation, or restarting therapy.
To minimize the risk of dizziness and fainting, be cautious when standing for extended periods. Avoid overheating during exercise and hot weather. When starting treatment, avoid situations that may lead to injury if you lose consciousness.
Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to the adverse effects of this medication, especially dizziness and fainting, which can increase the risk of falls.
During pregnancy, utilize this medication only if it is clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Prazosin is excreted into breast milk. Prior to breastfeeding, consult your doctor.
Form and Strength
Minipress is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
prazosin tablet:
- 1mg
- 2mg
- 5mg
FAQ
How quickly does Minipress work?
Blood levels of Minipress reach a peak within about three hours of an oral dose. The blood pressure-lowering effect occurs within two hours of a dose and reaches a peak at two to four hours.
Why do people take Minipress for PTSD?
Minipress can improve sleep and reduce nightmares associated with PTSD.
Resources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/prazosin-oral-capsule#_noHeaderPrefixedContent
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3425466/#:~:text=Prazosin%20is%20considered%20sufficiently%20lipophilic,CNS%2C%20blocking%20these%20stress%20responses.&text=Through%20this%20mechanism%2C%20prazosin%20can,reduce%20nightmares%20associated%20with%20PTSD
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682245.html
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/prazosin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20065617?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1813/minipress-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/minipress.html
