Prazosin is a drug belonging to the class of alpha-adrenergic blockers. It is used for treating high blood pressure or hypertension.

It is a selective competitive antagonist of the classical alpha 1 receptors. It dilates both resistance & capacitance vessels ; effect on the former predominating. Cardiovascular reflexes are not appreciably impaired by chronic therapy.

Working
The drug acts by relaxing blood vessels so that blood passes through them more easily. This further helps to lower blood pressure.

Dosage
Initially 0.5 mg daily increasing to 1 mg 2-3 times daily
Maintenance dose: 3-20 mg daily in divided doses

Contra- Indications: CHF due to mechanical obstruction

Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in different ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are often associated with the drug:

• Postural hypotension
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Dreaming
• Weakness

Brands