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TerazosinPronounced"teh-RAY-zoh-sin" Common brand names:Hytrin UsesTerazosin is used alone or with other drugs to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This medication works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Terazosin is also used in men to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH). It does not shrink the prostate, but it works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and part of the bladder. This helps to relieve symptoms of BPH such as difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, weak stream, and the need to urinate often or urgently (including during the middle of the night). Terazosin belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha blockers. Other UsesThis section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional. This drug may also be used to help your body "pass," or get rid of, kidney stones through urination. It may also be used for bladder problems in women. How to Use This MedicationRead the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking terazosin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily at bedtime. If you are taking this drug for the first time, do not take more than 1 milligram to start. Terazosin may cause a sudden drop in your blood pressure, which could lead to dizziness or fainting. This risk is higher when taking your first dose. To avoid injury related to dizziness or fainting, take your first dose of terazosin at bedtime. Your doctor will start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Any time your dose is increased or if you restart treatment after you have stopped it, take your first dose at bedtime unless otherwise directed to lessen the risk of injury related to dizziness or fainting. Also during these times, avoid situations where you may be injured if you faint. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. If you miss taking terazosin for a few days, you may need to restart treatment at the low dose and gradually increase your dose again. Consult your doctor for more details. If you are taking this medication for high blood pressure, keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. If you are taking this drug for an enlarged prostate, it may take 2 to 4 weeks to see an improvement in your symptoms, and up to 6 weeks before you see the full benefit of this drug. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (for example, your blood pressure readings remain high or increase). |