Prazosin (Manufacturer may vary)

Prazosin is a medication for dogs and cats and treats high blood pressure, hypertension, congestive heart failure, FIC (feline idiopathic cystitis), and conditions associated with FLUTD (feline lower urinary tract disease) like urethral blockage, spasm, or infections. Since it helps in controlling intraurethral intraluminal pressure, it is beneficial for lessening the symptoms of urolithiasis, ureterolithiasis, and prostatic hyperplasia.

Key Benefits

• Controls high blood pressure
• Helps blood circulate easily

How It Works

Prazosin causes the small blood vessels to relax (vasodilation). This makes it easier for blood to circulate, decreasing blood pressure and the work load on the heart. High blood pressure can be controlled or managed by drugs such as Prazosin.

Indications

Prazosin Hydrochloride is an alpha blocker used in the treatment of congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, and lung high blood pressure in dogs. It may also be used to treat obstructions of the urethra (urinary tract) in dogs and cats.

Give this medication to your pet exactly as your veterinarian prescribes. If you miss giving your pet a dose of prazosin, give the next dose as soon as you remember or, if it is close to the next scheduled dose, return to the regular schedule. Do not double dose to catch up.

Prazosin should be given with food.

Wash your hands after giving your pet this medication.

Cautions:

Keep out of reach of children. Should not be used in animals with low blood pressure or those with chronic kidney problems. Most side effects occur at the beginning of treatment. They can include dizziness or even fainting when your animal first stands up. Other side effects are related to the digestive tract and can include vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.

Precautions:

This drug should only be given to the animal for which it was prescribed. Do not give this medication to a person. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Prazosin should not be used in animals with low blood pressure or those with chronic kidney problems.

Side Effects:

Be sure to discuss any side effects with your veterinarian immediately.

Most side effects occur at the beginning of treatment. They can include dizziness or even fainting when your animal first stands up. Other side effects are related to the digestive tract and can include vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.

Drug Interactions:

Be sure to review with your veterinarian any medications or supplements your pet may be receiving.

Other drugs that lower blood pressure are generally not used with prazosin. This includes beta blockers, sildenafil, verapamil, and nifedipine.

Clonidine may decrease the effects of prazosin.

Storage:

Should be stored at room temperature and protect from light, moisture, and heat.