Terazosin (Hytrin)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Terazosin is a drug used to treat the urinary retention characteristic of benign prostatic hypertrophy. The urinary retention is frequently due to increased muscle tone in the prostate which, in turn, squeezes the urethra and reduces urine flow. It acts to block the alpha-1 receptors on prostate smooth muscle which produces relaxation of that muscle and less compression on the urethra.
Side Effects
Among the more common side effects are: dizziness (15%), headache (15%), fatigue (tiredness) (9%), sleepiness (5%) and low blood pressure upon arising (4%).
Drug Interactions
A small chance for potentiation of terazosin exists when verapamil is added to existing terazosin therapy.
Cautions and Contraindications
Should you experience postural hypotension the dizziness which could result could cause you to faint. To avoid this potential problem, dangle your legs over the bed for approximately 1-2 minutes before standing.
Usual Dose
The usual starting dose is 1 mg increasing to a maximum of 10 mg daily if postural hypotension does not become a problem.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.