Hydralazine - How Does Hydralazine Works? - By: Robert Baird

Type of Drug:

Drug used to lower high blood pressure.

How the Hydralazine Works:

Hydralazine lowers blood pressure by relaxing and dilating (widening) the blood vessels. Blood flows more freely at a lower pressure.

Uses of the Hydralazine:

To treat high blood pressure alone or in conjunction with other blood pressure lowering medications.

Unlabeled Uses: Occasionally doctors may prescribe hydralazine for the treatment of congestive heart failure, severe aortic insufficiency and after heart valve replacement.

Precautions:

Systemic lupus erythematosus: Hydralazine may produce symptoms similar to lupus (joint pain, fever, chest pain, continued general body discomfort, enlarged spleen, skin problems). Symptoms usually go away when the drug is discontinued.

Pregnancy: Adequate studies have not been done in pregnant women, or animal studies may have shown a risk to the fetus. Use only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh the possible hazards to the fetus.

Breastfeeding: Hydralazine appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Lab Tests: Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Tests may include blood tests. So mire to keep appointments.

Tartazine: Some of these products may contain the dye tartrazine (FD&C yellow No 5,) which can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. Check package labale when available or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Guidelines for Use:

Use exactly as prescribed.

Usual adult tablet dose is 50 mg taken four times daily.

Take with meals.

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised to do so by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication daily as directed. Have your blood pressure checked regularly and keep your appointments with your doctor even if you feel well. Most patients with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

Patients being treated for high blood pressure often feel tired or rundown for a few weeks after beginning therapy. Continue taking your medication even though you may not feel quite "normal." Contact your doctor or pharmacist about any new symptoms.

This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination or physical dexterity.

Contact your doctor if rash, joint pain, fever, chest pain or prolonged tiredness or general body discomfort occurs.

Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments.

Injection - Follow the injection procedure taught to you by your health care provider.

Visually inspect solution for particles or discoloration before use.

Store tablets below 86F in a tight, light-resistant container.

About the Author

Get the full detail about the drugs their uses, benefits, side effects and precautions. Know about the various type of drugs such as blood modifiers, cardiovasculars and many more. To get this all in detail you can visit http://www.drug-facts.net/

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