Hydralazine (Injection)

Introduction:

Hydralazine (hye-DRAL-a-zeen)

Treats high blood pressure and heart failure. This medicine is given to people who cannot take hydralazine by mouth. Belongs to a class of drugs called vasodilators.

Brand Name(s):

Novaplus HydrALAZINE Hydrochloride

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins. It may also be given as a shot into one of your muscles.
• You will receive this medicine in a hospital or surgery center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• This injectable form of hydralazine is not for long-term use. Your doctor might have you switch to hydralazine that you take by mouth as soon as you are able.

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 using a medicine to lower your blood sugar such as diazoxide (Proglycem®).
• Tell your doctor if you take an MAO inhibitor (MAOI) such as Eldepryl®, Marplan®, Nardil®, or Parnate®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.Tell your doctor if you have heart or kidney disease, lupus, or if you have had a stroke. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any preservatives.
• This medicine may make you dizzy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Chest pain, fast or uneven heartbeat.
• Fever, chills, or sore throat.
• Pain, itching, burning, or swelling where the shot is given.
• Skin rash, or blisters.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
• Unusual bleeding or bruising.

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

• Anxiety, agitation, or depression.
• Appetite loss, constipation, nausea, or vomiting.
• Headache, fainting, or light-headedness.
• Muscle or joint pain.
• Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet.
• Stuffy nose or watery eyes.
• Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.

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