Alphapress
Generic Name
Prazosin Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| alphapress 2 mg tablet | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Alphapress (Prazosin) is an alpha-1 adrenergic blocker used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by relaxing blood vessels and the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Hypertension: Initially 0.5 mg two or three times daily, gradually increasing up to a total daily dose of 20 mg in divided doses. BPH: Initially 0.5 mg once or twice daily, increasing to 2-5 mg daily.
Elderly
Start with a lower initial dose (0.5 mg once daily) and titrate cautiously due to increased sensitivity and potential for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but caution is advised. Monitor blood pressure closely.
How to Take
Alphapress tablets should be taken orally, with or without food. The first dose should preferably be taken at bedtime to minimize the 'first-dose effect' (sudden drop in blood pressure). Subsequent doses can be taken at regular intervals.
Mechanism of Action
Prazosin selectively blocks postsynaptic alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, resulting in vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and a reduction in total peripheral resistance. This leads to a decrease in blood pressure. In BPH, it relaxes the smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urine flow.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antihypertensive effect usually starts within 30-60 minutes.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in the bile and feces (approximately 90%); a small amount is excreted renally.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is typically 2-4 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; peak plasma concentrations occur within 1-3 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by demethylation and conjugation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Prazosin or other quinazolines
- History of orthostatic hypotension with other alpha-blockers
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Can potentiate the hypotensive effects.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect of Prazosin.
PDE5 Inhibitors (e.g., Sildenafil, Tadalafil)
Increased risk of symptomatic hypotension. Administer with caution and monitor blood pressure.
Other Antihypertensives (e.g., Diuretics, Beta-blockers)
Enhanced hypotensive effect. Dose adjustment of Prazosin may be needed.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe hypotension and possibly collapse. Management involves supporting cardiovascular function, placing the patient in a supine position, and administering intravenous fluids. Vasopressors may be used if needed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Prazosin is excreted in small amounts in human breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Prazosin or other quinazolines
- History of orthostatic hypotension with other alpha-blockers
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Can potentiate the hypotensive effects.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect of Prazosin.
PDE5 Inhibitors (e.g., Sildenafil, Tadalafil)
Increased risk of symptomatic hypotension. Administer with caution and monitor blood pressure.
Other Antihypertensives (e.g., Diuretics, Beta-blockers)
Enhanced hypotensive effect. Dose adjustment of Prazosin may be needed.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe hypotension and possibly collapse. Management involves supporting cardiovascular function, placing the patient in a supine position, and administering intravenous fluids. Vasopressors may be used if needed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Prazosin is excreted in small amounts in human breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture. Refer to the packaging for the exact expiry date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved in many countries for hypertension and BPH
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Prazosin has been extensively studied in clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for the treatment of hypertension and BPH. Ongoing research may explore new applications or formulations.
Lab Monitoring
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure, especially after initial dosing or dose changes.
- No routine lab tests are typically required.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients about the 'first-dose effect' and advise them to take the first dose at bedtime.
- Warn about potential orthostatic hypotension and advise slow changes in posture.
- Monitor blood pressure regularly and adjust dosage as needed.
- Advise patients to report any prolonged or painful erection immediately.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the first dose at bedtime to minimize dizziness or fainting.
- Rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid orthostatic hypotension.
- Report persistent dizziness, palpitations, or swelling to your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Prazosin can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or lightheadedness, particularly at the start of treatment or after dose increases. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery until they know how the drug affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise.
- Limit alcohol consumption as it can enhance the hypotensive effect.
- Avoid activities that require alertness if experiencing dizziness or drowsiness.
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