Terazosin HCL: Uses, indications and notes when using

Terazosin HCL (also known as Terazosin) belongs to the group of alpha blockers. The drug is prepared in the form of a capsule and is administered orally.

Terazosin HCL is a high blood pressure medicine used to treat diseases of high blood pressure, especially in the elderly, obese and diabetic. It helps prevent cardiovascular complications such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems. This medication works by dilating blood vessels so blood can flow more easily.
Terazosin is also used in men to treat symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia - BPH). The drug does not contract the BPH of the prostate, it works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and part of the bladder muscles. This helps relieve symptoms such as: Difficulty starting the flow of urine, weak flow, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently (including in the middle of the night).

Terazosin is available in capsule form and should be taken orally with or without food as directed by your doctor. Usually take once daily before going to bed. If using Terazosin for the first time, do not take more than 1 milligram. Terazosin can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure that can lead to dizziness or fainting. This risk is increased with the first dose. Therefore, to avoid injuries related to dizziness or fainting, the first dose of Terazosin should be administered at bedtime. Dosage is prescribed by the doctor from a low dose and gradually increasing the dose. When the dose is increased or treatment with Terazosin is restarted after a period of discontinuation, the first dose should be administered at bedtime. Or other instructions from your doctor are needed to reduce the risk of injury related to dizziness or fainting. The dose your doctor prescribes is based on the patient's medical condition and response to treatment. It should be taken regularly to get the maximum effect from it. If Terazosin has been stopped for a few days, it may be necessary to restart treatment at a low dose and gradually increase the dose again or consult your doctor. If you are taking Terazosin to treat high blood pressure, you should continue to take it even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick and therefore need to take their medication regularly to maintain a normal blood pressure. If you are taking Terazosin to treat an enlarged prostate, your symptoms should improve in 2 to 4 weeks. And it may take up to 6 weeks for you to see the full benefits of the drug. If you find that your health condition does not improve after taking the medicine, contact your doctor for advice.

Some possible side effects after taking Terazosin HCL such as:
Dizziness, lightheadedness Feeling tired, nausea, drowsiness or blurred vision Headache or stuffy nose. Contact your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects after taking this medicine, including:
Fainting Fast or irregular heartbeat Burning or tingling in your hands or feet Function problems sexual performance Swelling of the ankles or hands Unexpected weight gain In men, pain or spasticity lasting more than 4 hours is rare in men. If any of these symptoms appear, stop taking the medicine and notify your doctor immediately.
Terazosin very rarely causes serious allergic reactions in patients. However, contact your doctor right away if you notice any of the following symptoms:
Rash Itching or swelling of the mucous membranes (especially of the face, tongue, throat) Severe dizziness, difficulty breathing To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness after taking this medicine, get up slowly from a sitting or lying position.

Before taking Terazosin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to the drug or its ingredients. If you are allergic to other Alpha blockers such as: Doxazosin, Prazosin or have any other allergies, you should tell your doctor right away. This product may contain inactive ingredients which may cause an allergic reaction in the patient. Also, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: Low blood pressure, fainting or certain eye problems After taking Terazosin do not drive or do anything that requires you to do so. alertness. You should avoid driving or doing dangerous work for 12 hours after taking the first dose, after increasing your dose, or starting treatment with Terazosin again. Limit alcohol and tell your doctor if you are taking narcotics such as marijuana. Before having surgery (including cataract or glaucoma surgery), tell your doctor if you are or have ever taken this medicine. Also, tell your doctor about all other products you are using (including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products). During pregnancy, use this medicine only when absolutely necessary under the direction of your doctor.

Co-administration of Terazosin with other products may change the drug's activity or increase the risk of serious side effects. Therefore, you must inform your doctor or pharmacist about the drugs and preparations you are using. Do not start or stop or change the dose of any medicine without your doctor's approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug include: other Alpha blockers (such as Prazosin, Tamsulosin).

Reference source: Webmd.com