DIRECT VASODILATORS

Name              Trade Name                            Generic Name

                        Apresoline, Alazine                   Hydralazine

                        Loniten                                     Minoxidil

Use                 

•  Treat high blood pressure
•  Treat heart failure*

*Hydralazine used with a nitrate for treatment of heart failure in situations where an ACE inhibitor or Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker is contraindicated.

Action           

Direct vasodilators relax or dilate the arteries of the body,

which reduces the workload on the heart

Possible Side Effects

Every drug is capable of producing side effects.  Most patients experience no, or minor, side effects.  Possible side effects:

• Common: Headache, which is usually temporary
• Rare: Nasal congestion, lightheadedness, swelling of ankles, flushing, fast heart rate, tingling of fingers or toes
• Very rare: Abnormalities of blood count, lupus-like syndrome

Guidelines for Taking This Medication

• May be taken without regard to food
• Take your medication at the same time each day
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember; do not take it if it is almost time for the next dose
• Do not stop this medication, unless directed by your doctor or nurse
• To avoid lightheadedness, rise from a sitting or lying position slowly
• Notify your doctor or nurse promptly if you develop swelling of ankles, fast heart rate, chest pain, rash, prolonged fatigue
• If numbness or tingling of fingers or toes occurs, a vitamin B6 supplement may be recommended
• Avoid over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy and diet medications except upon professional recommendation
• Check your blood pressure regularly at home

Follow-up Tests

Blood test to monitor blood count

Ver 12.