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Hytrin
This page contains drug information on Hytrin.
The information provided includes the following:
what is Hytrin
the possible side effects of Hytrin
what happens if you miss a dose of Hytrin
what happens if you overdose with Hytrin
the most important information about Hytrin
how to use Hytrin
other drugs that may affect Hytrin
what to avoid while using Hytrin
Generic Name: terazosin (ter AH zoe sin)
Brand Names: Hytrin
What is the most important information I should know about terazosin?
- To avoid falling, take the first dose of terazosin at bedtime. Terazosin may cause dizziness. It is a good idea to take every dose at bedtime, if possible.
- Use caution when you stand or sit up from a lying position, especially if you wake up during the night. Dizziness may occur when changing positions.
- Do not stop taking terazosin suddenly, even if you feel better. Stopping suddenly could cause your blood pressure to increase.
What is terazosin?
- Terazosin is in a class of drugs called alpha-adrenergic blockers. Terazosin causes the blood vessels (veins and arteries) to relax and expand, which allows blood to pass more easily through them.
- Terazosin is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Terazosin is also used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate). It relaxes the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate.
- Terazosin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking terazosin?
- Before taking terazosin, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease. You may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during therapy with terazosin.
- Terazosin is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether terazosin will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take terazosin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
- It is not known whether terazosin passes into breast milk. Do not take terazosin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take terazosin?
- Take terazosin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass of water.
- To avoid falling, take the first dose of terazosin at bedtime. Terazosin may cause dizziness. It is a good idea to take every dose at bedtime, if possible.
- Use caution when you stand or sit up from a lying position, especially if you wake up during the night. Dizziness may occur when changing positions.
- Do not stop taking terazosin suddenly, even if you feel better. Stopping suddenly could cause your blood pressure to increase.
- Store terazosin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double dose could cause your blood pressure to become severely low.
- If you miss doses for several days in a row, call your doctor before taking any additional doses. Treatment may need to be restarted with a lower dose.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of a terazosin overdose include weakness, dizziness, and fainting; a weak, fast pulse; cold, clammy skin; and possible loss of consciousness or coma.
What should I avoid while taking terazosin?
- Avoid alcohol while taking terazosin. Alcohol may cause drowsiness or severely low blood pressure while taking terazosin.
- Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities until you know how the medication affects you. Terazosin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
- Avoid becoming overheated in hot weather and during exercise. Low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting could result.
What are the possible side effects of terazosin?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking terazosin and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- fast heartbeats;
- shortness of breath or chest pain;
- a prolonged or painful erection; or
- a rash.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take terazosin and talk to your doctor if you experience
- vivid dreams;
- dizziness or drowsiness;
- weakness, fatigue, or a feeling of not being well;
- nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, or decreased appetite;
- fluid retention or slight weight gain;
- joint or muscle aches;
- headache, irritability, or depression;
- increased urination;
- decreased sex drive; or
- numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, arms, or legs.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect terazosin?
- Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal supplements during treatment with terazosin.
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