Hytrin

terazosin

Terazosin Tablets

What is Terazosin?

Terazosin is an antihypertensive medication, meaning it helps lower blood pressure. It achieves this by relaxing and widening blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily. This medication is used to treat two common conditions:

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): An enlarged prostate gland, a common condition in men that can cause urinary problems.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Affecting both men and women, high blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

It's important to understand that Terazosin treats the symptoms of these conditions, not the underlying causes. Always consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before starting Terazosin, inform your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including:

• Any allergies you have, including allergies to medications, food, dyes, or preservatives. This is particularly important if you've had an allergic reaction to Terazosin or similar medications in the past.
• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Terazosin's effects on pregnancy and breastfeeding are not fully understood, so your doctor needs to assess the risks and benefits.
• Other medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements. Many medications can interact with Terazosin.
• Any history of liver or kidney disease.

How to Take Terazosin

Take Terazosin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, it is taken orally with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food. Maintain a regular dosing schedule; do not adjust your dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your physician.

Children's use of Terazosin requires special consideration. Always consult your pediatrician before giving this medication to a child.

In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.

This medication is for your personal use only. Do not share it with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Never double up on doses.

Potential Drug Interactions

Terazosin can interact with several other medications. It's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are using. Some important examples include:

• Diuretics (water pills)
• Other blood pressure medications
• Sildenafil citrate (Viagra)
• Tadalafil (Cialis)
• Vardenafil (Levitra)

This is not an exhaustive list. Be sure to disclose all your medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal remedies, alcohol, and recreational drugs, to your doctor or pharmacist.

Monitoring Your Health While on Terazosin

Regular check-ups with your doctor are vital to monitor your progress and adjust your dosage as needed. Keep track of your blood pressure and report any significant changes. Your doctor will provide you with target blood pressure levels and guidance on when to contact them.

Be aware that drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects, particularly after the first dose, a dose increase, or during hot weather or strenuous exercise. These effects usually lessen as your body adjusts. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how Terazosin affects you. Change positions slowly to minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting. Alcohol can worsen these effects; limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Terazosin.

Do not self-treat coughs, colds, or pain without consulting your doctor. Some over-the-counter medications can interact with Terazosin and raise your blood pressure.

Dry mouth is another possible side effect. If this occurs, try chewing sugarless gum, sucking on hard candy, or drinking plenty of water. Consult your doctor if it persists or is severe.

Possible Side Effects

Report the following side effects to your doctor immediately:

• Blurred vision
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Fainting or lightheadedness
• Fast or irregular heartbeat, palpitations, or chest pain
• Prolonged, painful erection (priapism)
• Swelling in the legs and ankles
• Unusual weakness or fatigue

Side effects that usually do not require immediate medical attention but should be reported to your doctor if they persist or are bothersome:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Nasal congestion

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. Consult your physician or pharmacist for more details.

Storage

Keep Terazosin out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). High temperatures can damage the tablets. Protect from light and moisture. Dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.