| name | Hydralazine |
| classification | Antihypertensive, Vasodilator |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, but bioavailability is variable and incomplete. | | distribution | Distributes widely throughout the body, including the central nervous system (CNS). Primarily metabolized in the liver. | | metabolism | Metabolized in the liver primarily via acetylation, with significant inter-individual variability in acetylator phenotype. | | excretion | Excreted primarily via the kidneys as metabolites. |
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| suggested dosage | | oral | | adult | Initial dose: 10 mg 2-3 times a day, adjusted according to response and tolerance; maintenance dose: 10-50 mg 2-4 times a day. *Note:* Dosage is highly individualized and should be determined by a physician based on patient response and clinical needs. | | important note | Close monitoring of blood pressure and potential adverse effects is crucial. Never adjust dose based on self-assessment. |
| | other | Intravenous administration is also used in hypertensive emergencies, but requires close medical supervision and is not a typical regimen for a 25-year-old patient. This is a hospital/emergency room setting. |
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| indications | | 1 | Hypertension (high blood pressure) | | 2 | Hypertensive emergencies (severe high blood pressure requiring rapid reduction in BP). | | 3 | Congestive heart failure (in combination with other medications) |
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| safety in pregnancy | Hydralazine crosses the placenta. Its use in pregnancy should be carefully considered and only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Consult a healthcare provider. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Limited data is available, but hydralazine is expected to be excreted in breast milk. Its use during breastfeeding should be evaluated carefully, and with a discussion with the prescribing physician, especially for infants. |
| side effects | | 1 | Headache | | 2 | Dizziness | | 3 | Nasal congestion | | 4 | Palpitations | | 5 | Orthostatic hypotension (lightheadedness when standing up) | | 6 | Tachycardia | | 7 | Lupus-like syndrome (a serious, potentially life-threatening autoimmune condition; rare but needs immediate medical attention): | | 8 | Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting) | | 9 | Drug rash or skin reactions |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Severe coronary artery disease | | 2 | Known hypersensitivity or allergy to hydralazine | | 3 | Aortic stenosis (severe narrowing of the aorta) | | 4 | Known history of lupus or other autoimmune disorders (increased risk of exacerbation with hydralazine). | | 5 | Active and severe heart block |
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| interactions | | 1 | Alcohol | | 2 | Other antihypertensive medications | | 3 | MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) | | 4 | Certain antibiotics (rifampicin) | | 5 | Certain psychiatric medications | | 6 | Nitrate medications (can reduce BP too much) |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor blood pressure frequently, especially after dose adjustments | | 2 | Caution with patients with renal or hepatic impairment | | 3 | Close monitoring is required during initial therapy and titration of dose | | 4 | Regular blood tests may be needed to check for possible side effects | | 5 | Avoid rapid dose changes to prevent sudden drops in blood pressure. |
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| additional informations | Hydralazine is an effective antihypertensive, but it should only be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional. Individual responses to the drug can vary, and potential side effects need careful consideration and management. |
| patient specific notes | | age | 25 years | | weight | 70 kg | | comments | This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. |
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