prazosin-oral (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history especially of: heart or kidney problems, any allergies. To avoid dizziness or fainting, get up slowly from a lying or seated position; especially when you first start using this drug or if your doctor changes your dosing. Limit your intake of alcohol and avoid getting overheated because they may increase the dizziness and drowsiness effects of this drug. Use caution performing tasks that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Prazosin is excreted into breast milk. Though to date, there have been no reports on harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: verapamil, beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol). Avoid drugs that increase your heart rate or make you excited like decongestants because it may counteract your blood pressure medicine. Decongestants are commonly found in over-the-counter cough-and-cold products. Ask your pharmacist if you are uncertain your cold/allergy medicine contains a decongestant. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness and weakness.
NOTES: It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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