| name | Terazosin (Hytrin) |
| classification | Alpha-1 adrenergic blocker |
| pharmacokinetics | Terazosin is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 2-3 hours. Extensive hepatic metabolism occurs. The elimination half-life is approximately 10-12 hours, and excretion is primarily via the kidneys. |
| suggested dosage | | initial | 1 mg orally at bedtime, titrated upward every 1-2 weeks by 1-2 mg increments, to a maximum of 20 mg daily. | | commentary | Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on patient response and tolerance. Monitor blood pressure closely during titration. |
|
| indications | | 1 | Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) | | 2 | Treatment of hypertension |
|
| safety in pregnancy | Terazosin is not recommended during pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs while taking this medication, inform your doctor immediately to discuss risks and benefits. |
| safety in breastfeeding | It is unknown if terazosin is excreted in human breast milk. Caution is advised, and consult your doctor if breastfeeding. |
| side effects | | 1 | Orthostatic hypotension (especially at initiation) | | 2 | Dizziness | | 3 | Lightheadedness | | 4 | Headache | | 5 | Fatigue | | 6 | Nasal congestion | | 7 | Drowsiness | | 8 | Ejaculatory dysfunction | | 9 | Peripheral edema | | 10 | Blurred vision | | 11 | Weakness | | 12 | Palpitations |
|
| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypersensitivity to terazosin or related components | | 2 | Severe hepatic or renal impairment (dosage adjustments may be necessary) | | 3 | Known or suspected cardiovascular instability (e.g., recent MI, unstable angina) | | 4 | Dehydration |
|
| interactions | | 1 | Drugs that lower blood pressure (e.g., other antihypertensives, diuretics, nitrates) | | 2 | Alcohol (may increase risk of orthostatic hypotension) | | 3 | CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, grapefruit juice) |
|
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent orthostatic hypotension. | | 2 | Monitor blood pressure frequently, especially during initial titration and after dosage changes. | | 3 | Use with caution in patients with history of syncope or orthostatic hypotension. | | 4 | Advise patients about potential side effects and to report unusual symptoms. | | 5 | Close monitoring is essential in patients with pre-existing liver or kidney disease. |
|
| additional information | Report any unusual symptoms or side effects to your physician. |
| patient specific considerations | | age | 25 years old: Monitor closely for common side effects and adjust dosage as needed. | | weight | 70 kg: Weight isn't a direct factor in determining dosage, but considerations of weight may be included in dosage adjustments for co-morbidities. | | gender | Male: Possible side effect of ejaculatory dysfunction should be considered. |
|
