Product Description

Prazosin Hydrochloride Extended Release Tablets IP 5 mg is an antihypertensive medicine belonging to the class of alpha-1 adrenergic blockers. It is primarily used for the management of hypertension (high blood pressure) and helps reduce the risk of long-term cardiovascular complications such as heart attack and stroke.

In addition to blood pressure control, this medicine is also prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men, where it helps relieve urinary symptoms by relaxing smooth muscles of the prostate and bladder neck. It may also be used in conditions such as heart failure and Raynaud’s phenomenon (cold finger syndrome), as advised by a doctor.

The extended-release formulation ensures gradual drug release, providing sustained blood pressure control with improved tolerability.

Uses

Prazosin Hydrochloride Extended Release Tablets IP 5 mg are used for:

• Treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure)
  

• Reduction of cardiovascular risk, such as heart attack and stroke
  

• Management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
  

• Raynaud’s phenomenon (cold finger syndrome)
  

• Adjunct therapy in certain cases of heart failure
  
  

How it works

Prazosin Hydrochloride is a selective alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker. It works by:

• Relaxing and widening blood vessels
  

• Reducing resistance to blood flow
  

• Lowering blood pressure by decreasing the workload on the heart
  

In BPH, it relaxes smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urine flow and reducing urinary symptoms. The extended-release formulation provides sustained action over time.

Benefits

• Effectively lowers high blood pressure
  

• Reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke
  

• Improves urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate
  

• Helps relieve circulation-related symptoms such as cold fingers
  

• Once-daily extended-release dosing improves treatment compliance
  
  

How to use

• Take the tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor
  

• Swallow whole with water; do not crush, chew, or break
  

• Can be taken with or without food
  

• Take it at the same time each day for the best results
  
  

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness or light-headedness
  

• Drowsiness
  

• Headache
  

• Weakness or fatigue
  

• Palpitations
  

• Nausea
  

• Low blood pressure, especially after the first dose
  

Rare but serious side effects, such as prolonged painful erections (priapism), require immediate medical attention.

Safety Advice

• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol, as it may increase the risk of low blood pressure and dizziness
  

• Pregnancy: Use only if clearly advised by a doctor (Pregnancy Category C)
  

• Driving: Avoid driving or operating machinery if dizziness or drowsiness occurs
  

• Elderly patients: Start at a low dose to reduce the risk of sudden blood pressure drop
  

• Medical conditions: Inform your doctor if you have heart disease, kidney problems, or fainting episodes
  
  

Storage Conditions

• Store below 30°C (86°F)
  

• Protect from light and moisture
  

• Keep out of reach of children
  
  

FAQs

What is Prazosin Hydrochloride Extended Release Tablets IP 5 mg used for?

It is used to treat high blood pressure, benign prostatic hyperplasia, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and to reduce cardiovascular risk.

How does Prazosin work?

It relaxes blood vessels and smooth muscles by blocking alpha-1 receptors, thereby lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow.

Can I stop taking it once my blood pressure is controlled?

No. Do not stop the medicine without consulting your doctor, as sudden discontinuation may cause blood pressure to rise again.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.

Can this medicine cause dizziness?

Yes, dizziness may occur, especially after the first dose or dose increase. Rest until symptoms improve.

For how long can this medicine be taken?

It can be taken long-term as prescribed by your doctor. Hypertension often requires lifelong treatment.