PRAZOSIN WITH POLYTHIAZIDE - ORAL (Minizide) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

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GENERIC NAME: PRAZOSIN WITH POLYTHIAZIDE - ORAL (PRAY-zoh-sin WITH paw-lee-THIGH-uh-zide)

BRAND NAME(S): Minizide

WARNING: This combination medication is not intended to be the first drug to be tried in controlling high blood pressure. It should only be used after other treatments have been tried and after the ideal dose has been determined (titrated). Your blood pressure medication may need to be adjusted or changed by your doctor as needed.

USES: Prazosin helps to widen arteries and veins so blood flows better. Polythiazide is a diuretic (water pill) that helps rid the body of excess fluid. This combination medication is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and certain types of heart disease.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time each day. Take the first dose at bedtime to minimize the chances of getting dizzy or fainting. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, headache, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, nausea, loss of taste, flushing, fatigue or increased urination may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, difficulty breathing, skin rash, tingling of the hands or feet, yellowing of the skin or eyes. Males - though it is unlikely to occur, if you get a painful, prolonged erection, stop using this drug and seek immediate medical attention. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.