Questions and Answers
What is the therapeutic class of Prazosin (Minipress)?
What is the pharmacologic class of Prazosin (Minipress)?
Adrenergic-blocking drug (rest & digest)
What is the primary expected action of Prazosin (Minipress)?
Reduce blood pressure by causing rapid decrease in peripheral resistance.
To avoid severe hypotension, give a low 1st dose of Prazosin (Minipress) and identify its safety during pregnancy as Category ___ or lactation is not established.
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What common side effect is associated with Prazosin (Minipress)?
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What interactions should be avoided when taking Prazosin (Minipress)?
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How often is Prazosin (Minipress) typically administered?
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What is the mechanism of action of Prazosin (Minipress)?
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What is a primary use of Prazosin (Minipress)?
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Match the following side effects with their corresponding descriptions:
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What test results can be falsely elevated by Prazosin (Minipress)?
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What is the treatment for overdose of Prazosin (Minipress)?
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Study Notes
Prazosin (Minipress) Overview
- Prazosin is classified as an antihypertensive medication, primarily used to lower blood pressure.
- It is an adrenergic-blocking drug that promotes the "rest & digest" state of the body.
Expected Actions & Uses
- Functions as a selective alpha1-adrenergic antagonist, blocking norepinephrine on vascular smooth muscle of arterioles and veins.
- Major action includes a rapid decrease in peripheral resistance, effectively lowering blood pressure without significantly impacting cardiac output or heart rate.
- Less reflex tachycardia compared to other antihypertensive medications.
- Commonly used in combination with beta-blockers or diuretics to enhance antihypertensive effects.
Administration Alerts
- Begin with a low first dose to prevent severe hypotension.
- Safety during pregnancy is categorized as Category C; effects during lactation are not established.
Side Effects
- Orthostatic hypotension, requiring caution in administration timing (preferably at bedtime).
- Possible dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Reflex tachycardia may occur due to rapid blood pressure drops.
- Alpha blockade can lead to nasal congestion.
Drug Interactions
- Concurrent use with other antihypertensives and diuretics may lead to dangerously low blood pressure.
- Alcohol consumption is advised against while taking this medication.
Medication Administration
- Prazosin has a short half-life, necessitating administration two to three times per day for optimal effect.
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits the sympathetic nervous system, facilitating vasodilation and blood pressure reduction.
Primary Uses
- Indicated for hypertension, dysthymias, angina, heart failure, benign prostate hypertrophy, and narrow-angle glaucoma.
Adverse Effects
- Common adverse reactions include dizziness, drowsiness, headaches, fatigue, palpitations, and dry mouth.
Test Results
- Increases urinary metabolites of vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) and norepinephrine; may lead to false positives when screening for pheochromocytoma (adrenal tumor).
Treatment of Overdose
- Overdose can result in hypotension. Treatment includes fluid expanders like normal saline or vasopressors such as dopamine or dobutamine to stabilize blood pressure.
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Description
This quiz covers the overview of Prazosin (Minipress), its action as an antihypertensive medication, and its expected uses. Learn about its selective alpha1-adrenergic antagonist properties, administration alerts, and potential side effects. Test your knowledge on this important medication!
