Patient Education: Prazosin

Prazosin is prescribed by your healthcare provider based on current guidelines to address specific mental health conditions. While effective, all medications have potential side effects. It's crucial to be informed about these risks and benefits. It's also important to understand strategies to reduce their occurrence or manage them effectively. It's vital to know when to contact your healthcare provider or seek immediate medical attention. This guide aims to empower you with this knowledge, ensuring a well-informed approach to your child's treatment. If you are still unsure, always reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance.

What is Prazosin?

Prazosin belongs to a group of medicines known as alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist. It works by stimulating these receptors in the brain, which helps the brain manage signals better. This makes it easier to concentrate and control impulses.

When is Prazosin prescribed to Children & Adolescents? 

Your doctor may prescribe Prazosin  for

• Nightmares and sleep disturbances in Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

What is the Dose of Prazosin?

• The dose typically ranges from 1 to 6 mg per day.
• Started at a low dose, gradually increasing to effectiveness.

Medication Guidelines: What You Need to Know

• Take your medication consistently every day as directed by your healthcare provider, rather than using it only when you feel you need it.
• Abruptly stopping this medication can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure, which may feel like nervousness or anxiety. If the medication needs to be stopped, it should be tapered down under your provider's supervision.

What can be the possible

side-effects from the medication?

Your child may experience some side effects from the medication initially. Most of these side effects are mild and improve over time. The medication is started at a low dose to minimize these side effects. If side effects persist, consult your healthcare provider.

• Drowsiness, Dizziness, Fatigue: To minimize these side effects, Prazosin is started at a low dose and increased slowly. 
• Reduced Blood Pressure & Vertigo: Prazosin may lower blood pressure. Regular monitoring is needed. If your child has serious heart conditions, cardiology approval is required before use.
• Headache: May happen initially but usually improves over time. Consult with your provider if persistent. 
• Nausea, Vomiting: These can be mitigated by taking your medication with meals. Contact your provider if it persists. 
• Stomach upset, Diarrhea: Reducing the dosage might help. As your body adjusts, your provider may gradually increase the dose back to the original level if needed.
• Dry Mouth, Constipation: Regular hydration can alleviate this symptom. Try to drink water frequently throughout the day.

To learn more about this medication please visit MedlinePlus, a official US government website, part of National Library of Medicine and managed by National Institute of Health by clicking HERE