Guanabenz (By Mouth)

Guanabenz (GWAHN-a-benz)

Treats high blood pressure.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to guanabenz in the past.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Take this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered. Even if you feel fine your blood pressure can still be high.
• May be taken with or without food.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• If you miss more than two doses in row, talk with your doctor.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you are taking a beta blocker such as Inderal®, Tenormin®, Lopressor®, Visken®, or Corgard®.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking if you have heart, kidney, or liver disease.
• Talk with your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly, because you may need to take smaller and smaller doses before completely stopping the medicine.
• Tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking guanabenz before having any kind of surgery.
• Guanabenz can make some people dizzy or drowsy, be careful if you drive a car or operate machinery.
• To avoid dizziness while taking this medicine, stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Irregular heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Skin rash, severe itching or hives
• Severe dizziness or fainting

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Dry mouth, increased sweating
• Headache, nervousness, or restlessness
• Diarrhea
• Breast swelling in men
• Sexual difficulties
• Nausea or vomiting

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.