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Common brand name: Apresoline
Why is hydralazine prescribed?
Hydralazine controls high blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so
that blood can flow more easily through the body. It also is used to treat heart
failure.
When should hydralazine be used?
Hydralazine is usually taken two to four times a day. Take it at evenly
spaced intervals while you are awake. Follow the instructions on your
prescription label carefully, and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain any
part that you do not understand.
Hydralazine controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Therefore, it
is important that you take this medication regularly, even if you feel well. You
may have to take hydralazine for several weeks before feeling its full effect.
How should it be used?
Hydralazine comes in tablets. The prescription label tells you how much to
take at each dose. Take hydralazine with meals or a snack. Ask your pharmacist
any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
What special instructions should I follow while using this drug?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory so that your
response to the drug can be monitored. Your blood pressure should be checked
regularly. Ask your pharmacist or doctor how to take your own blood pressure. NEVER
stop taking hydralazine without consulting your doctor.
Your doctor may prescribe a low-salt or low-sodium diet and instruct you to
follow a daily exercise program. Follow these instructions carefully.
Be sure that you always have enough of this medication on hand. Check your
supply before vacations, holidays and other occasions when you may be unable to
obtain it.
What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if you remember a
missed dose at the time you are to take the next one, take only one dose. Do not
take a double dose.
What side effects can this drug cause? What can I do about them?
Although side effects from hydralazine are not common, the following can
occur:
- Headache; rapid, irregular or pounding heartbeat; numbness or
tingling of the fingers or toes; loss of appetite, and diarrhea—Your
doctor will probably prescribe additional medication to control these side
effects. If they continue, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
- Fever, joint or chest pain, sore throat, skin rash (especially
on the face), unusual bleeding or bruising, weight gain, and swelling of the
ankles—Contact your doctor immediately.
- Dizziness—Rise slowly from a sitting or lying position.
If you experience any other side effects that you think could be caused by
this medication and/or are of concern to you, call your doctor.
What other precautions should I follow while using this drug?
Before taking hydralazine, tell your doctor:
- If you have heart disease or kidney problems
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding (If you become pregnant
while taking hydralazine, contact your doctor immediately.)
- If you are allergic to aspirin or tartrazine (a yellow dye in
some processed foods and medications, including certain brands of
hydralazine)
- What prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter)
medications you are taking, especially antidepressants called MAO
inhibitors, diazoxide or medicines for appetite control (Also inform your
pharmacist.)
In addition, tell your doctor and pharmacist the names of any vitamins,
herbals, and dietary supplements you also may be taking. Never share your
medication with anyone
What storage conditions are necessary for this drug?
- Keep hydralazine in its original container, tightly closed.
- Store it at room temperature and away from direct sunlight.
- Keep hydralazine out of the reach of children.
- Never take outdated medications. Some medication prescription
labels list an expiration date. If such a date is not on your medication
label or if you are unsure how old a medication is, call your pharmacy.
This handout summarizes information to help you understand and safely take
your medication. Other information--not included in this handout--may be
important for you to know because of your unique health status. Ask your doctor
and/or pharmacist for more information on the medications prescribed for you and
your unique health care needs.
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