Hydralazine Hydrochloride (By Mouth)

Hydralazine Hydrochloride (hye-DRAL-a-zeen hye-droe-KLOR-ide)

Treats high blood pressure and heart failure. Belongs to a class of drugs called vasodilators.

Brand Name(s):

Apresoline
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 ever had an allergic reaction to hydralazine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Take this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered. Even if you feel fine your blood pressure can still be high.
• It is best to take your medicine on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.

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 and return to your regular dosing schedule.
• 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.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking diazoxide (Proglycem®), or MAO inhibitors such as Nardil®, Parnate®, or Marplan®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking if you have heart or kidney disease, asthma, lupus or if you have had a stroke.
• Talk with your doctor before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Hydralazine can make some people dizzy or drowsy, be careful if you drive a car or operate machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Skin rash, blisters, severe itching or hives
• Fever, chills, or sore throat
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Joint pain
• Swelling of the feet or legs

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

• Headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Fast heartbeat
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• Appetite loss, nausea, or vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Stuffy nose or watery eyes
• Facial flushing (redness)

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