Minipress is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Minipress is effective used alone or with other high blood pressure medications such as diuretics or beta-blocking medications (drugs that ease heart contractions) such as Tenormin.

Minipress is also prescribed for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an abnormal enlargement of the prostate gland.

Minipress causes the blood

Minipress contains the active ingredient prazosin hydrochloride, which is a type of medicine called an alpha-blocker. Minipress works by blocking alpha-receptors in certain areas of the body.

Alpha-receptors are present on the muscle in the walls of blood vessels. When these receptors are blocked by Minipress, the muscle relaxes, causing the blood vessels to widen. The result of this is a lowering of blood pressure and Minipress can therefore be used to treat high blood pressure.

Widening

Minipress can be taken with or without food.

To avoid falling, take the first dose at bedtime. Minipress may cause dizziness. It is a good idea to take every dose at bedtime, if possible.

Use caution when you stand or sit up from a lying position, especially if you wake up during the night. Dizziness may occur when changing positions.

Do not stop taking Minipress suddenly even if you feel better. Stopping suddenly could cause your blood pressure to increase.

Minipress should be taken exactly

Minipress can intensify the effects of alcohol. Be careful of the amount you drink.

If Minipress is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important that you check with your doctor before combining Minipress with the following:

• Beta blockers such as Inderal
• Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
• Diuretics such as Dyazide
• Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, others)
• Other high blood pressure medications

When

Special precautions if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Minipress

Side effects of Minipress cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Minipress .

More common side effects of Minipress may include:
Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, lack of energy, nausea, palpitations (pounding heartbeat), weakness.

Less common side effects of Minipress may include:
Blurred vision, constipation, depression, diarrhea, dizziness on standing up, dry mouth,