Apresoline (Hydralazine)

Indications

Apresoline (hydralazine) is a prescription medication used for the treatment of high blood pressure. It belongs to a class of drug known as antihypertensive. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily. Hydralazine is sometimes called an antihypertensive drug and can be administered orally or intravenously depending on the patient's needs.

Hydralazine must be taken as directed and combined with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise to maximize its effectiveness. By decreasing elevated blood pressure, the risk of developing strokes, heart attacks, and kidney disease is reduced. Hydralazine is a vasodilator, meaning it works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing for improved blood flow throughout the body.

Apresoline is used to treat severe essential hypertension, chronic high blood pressure, hypertensive crisis, and congestive heart failure. It is an antihypertensive medication, designed to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.

Uses and Dosage

Hydralazine comes in the form of an oral tablet and is taken by mouth with or without food, usually 2 to 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment and may be started at a low dose and gradually increased.

When initiating treatment with Apresoline, doses should be gradually increased over the course of 2-4 days. Initially, 10 mg should be taken four times daily, and then increased to 25 mg four times daily for the remainder of the first week. For the second and subsequent weeks, the dosage should be increased to 50 mg four times daily. Once a maintenance dose has been established, it should be adjusted to the lowest effective level.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Apresoline Include:

• Chest pain
• Fast heart rate
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite

Serious side effects of Hydralazine

• Allergic reactions:
  • Skin rash
  • Itching
  • Hives
  • Swelling of the face
  • Lips
  • Tongue
  • Throat
• Heart attack:
  • Pain or tightness in the chest, shoulders, arms, or jaw
  • Nausea
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cold or clammy skin
  • Feeling faint or lightheaded
• Low blood pressure:
  • Dizziness
  • Feeling faint or lightheaded
  • Blurry vision
• Lupus-like syndrome:
  • Joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
  • Butterfly-shaped rash on the face
  • Rashes that get worse in the sun, fever
  • Unusual weakness or fatigue
• Pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet

Form and Strength

Hydralazine, the generic alternative form of Apresoline is available in the following forms and strengths:

Hydralazine: Tablet

• 10 mg
• 25 mg
• 50 mg

Caution

• Monitor your blood pressure regularly to ensure that the medication is having the desired effect. Adjustments to your dosage may be necessary to maintain optimal blood pressure levels.
• Apresoline should not be taken if you have any allergies to the active ingredient, hydralazine, or hydrochlorothiazide.
• If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor to ensure that the benefits of the medication outweigh any potential risks.
• Before using Apresoline, make sure your doctor is aware of your full medical history, especially if you have had kidney disease, lupus, a stroke, chest pain, or any other related conditions.
• If you have coronary artery disease or rheumatic heart disease affecting your mitral valve, then you should avoid taking this medication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is hydralazine Apresoline used for?

Hydralazine is an antihypertensive medication prescribed to reduce high blood pressure. It is used to manage hypertension in a pregnant mother (pre-eclampsia or eclampsia) or in cases of hypertensive crisis, where the blood pressure is dangerously high. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

What is the best time to take hydralazine?

If you are to take a single dose a day, take it in the morning after breakfast. If you are to take more than one dose a day, take the last dose no later than 6 p.m., unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Can you take hydralazine daily?

Hydralazine can be taken daily, but the dosage will depend on the condition being treated and other factors. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking hydralazine to ensure you get the most benefit from it.

When should hydralazine not be taken?

Hydralazine should not be taken if you are pregnant, have kidney or liver disease, or are allergic to any components of the medication. Talk to your doctor before taking hydralazine if you have any of these conditions.

Resources

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/hydralazine-oral-route/description/drg-20064201
• https://www.rxlist.com/apresoline-drug.htm#description
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6680/apresoline-oral/details
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20177-hydralazine-tablets
• https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB01275