Uses
Hydralazine is used to treat high blood pressure. Hydralazine is in a class of medications called vasodilators. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through the body.
High blood pressure is a common condition and when not treated, can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and other parts of the body. Damage to these organs may cause heart disease, a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. In addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.
Side Effects Of Hydralazine
Hydralazine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- flushing
- headache
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- diarrhea
- constipation
- eye tearing
- stuffy nose
- rash
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- fainting
- joint or muscle pain
- fever
- rapid heartbeat
- chest pain
- swollen ankles or feet
- numbing or tingling in hands or feet
Warnings & Precautions
Before taking hydralazine:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to hydralazine, aspirin, tartrazine (a yellow dye in some processed foods and medications), any other medications, or any of the ingredients in hydralazine tablets. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and nutritional supplements you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: indomethacin (Indocin, Tivorbex), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol-XL, in Dutoprol), and propranolol (Inderal LA, Innopran XL, in Inderide).
- tell your doctor if you have ever had a heart attack, or have coronary artery disease, rheumatic heart disease, or heart, kidney, or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking hydralazine, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking hydralazine.
- ask your doctor about the safe use of alcohol while you are taking hydralazine. Alcohol can make the side effects of hydralazine worse.
Hydralazine Dosage
Hydralazine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken two to four a day. Take hydralazine at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take hydralazine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Hydralazine controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take hydralazine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking hydralazine without talking to your doctor.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to hydralazine.
Your doctor may ask you to check your blood pressure daily. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to teach you how.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
