prazosin hydrochloride /prä″zəsin/ , an antihypertensive, peripherally acting alpha1-adrenergic blocker. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed to treat hypertension and to decrease afterload in congestive heart disease. Unlabeled uses include treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and Raynaud’s phenomenon. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to this or similar drugs (e.g., terazosin, doxazosin) prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: The initial dose of the medication can cause a large drop in blood pressure and syncope, especially in patients who are volume depleted or are concurrently using beta blockers. Common ongoing adverse effects include tachycardia, palpations, orthostatic hypotension, fainting, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, urinary urgency, weakness, and nausea. Rarely cataracts have appeared or worsened with the use of prazosin.
