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Hydralazine hydrochloride (By mouth)

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:

Reviewed last on: 1/4/2010

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