Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

HYDRALAZINE - INJECTION

(hi-DRAL-uh-zeen)

Uses

This medication relaxes and dilates (expands) blood vessels resulting in lowered blood pressure. It is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

How To Use

Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Try to use it at the same time(s) each day. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. It is important to continue using this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

Side Effects

Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, constipation, loss of appetite, fatigue, and nasal congestion may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effects. Though unlikely to occur, inform your doctor if you develop: chest pain, muscle aches, shortness of breath, skin rash, swelling of the hands or feet, yellowing of the eyes or skin, swollen glands, joint pain, change in the amount of urine. This drug may cause numbness or tingling of the fingers and toes. If this occurs, notify your doctor. A vitamin B6 supplement (pyridoxine) may be recommended. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart conditions, blood vessel problems, kidney disease, allergies (especially drug allergies). This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. It is not known if hydralazine passes into breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: propranolol, metoprolol, diazoxide. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include rapid heart rate and headache.

Notes

It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while using this medication. Learn how to monitor your blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. Contact your doctor if 2 or more doses are missed.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from sunlight.