Hytrin (Terazosin)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - February 11, 2021
Hytrin (Terazosin) Medication Information
Uses
Hytrin is indicated for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and hypertension.
Dosage
The tablets are available in several different strengths:
- 1 mg
- 2 mg
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Hytrin include:
- Flu symptoms
- Headache
- Hypotension
- Palpitations
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Somnolence
Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you take Hytrin.
Precautions
Prostate cancer and BPH cause many of the same symptoms, and these two diseases frequently co-exist. Therefore, patients should be examined prior to starting Hytrin to rule out the presence of prostate cancer.
Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) has been observed during cataract surgery in some patients on/or previously treated with Hytrin.
Patients should be made aware of the possibility of syncope and orthostatic symptoms, especially at the initiation of therapy, and to avoid driving or hazardous tasks for 12 hours after the first dose, after a dosage increase and after interruption of therapy when treatment is resumed.
Interactions
Common medications that interact with Hytrin are listed:
- Alcohol
- Sildenafil
- Tadalafil
Speak with your doctor for more information about drug interactions with Hytrin.
Storage
Store at room temperature, below 86ºF.
Pharmacist Tips
- Drowsiness can occur with Hytrin, use caution if you must drive or operate heavy machinery.
- Prolonged erection can occur with Hytrin, if this does seek immediate medical attention as it can lead to permanent erectile dysfunction.
- Taking this medication with PDE-5 inhibitors like sildenafil can cause extreme lowering of blood pressure.
Terazosin FAQs
Why do you take Hytrin at night?
Terazosin is recommended to be taken at night because of the possible dip in blood pressure that occurs with change in posture. It is recommended to take at night to limit the motion of patients to limit this side effect.
Is terazosin bad for kidneys?
If too much Hytrin is taken, it can lower a patients blood pressure so much that it limits the blood flow to certain organs, including the kidneys, and this can potentially lead to kidney injury or failure.
How long does it take for terazosin to lower blood pressure?
You should notice a drop in blood pressure after taking the first dose of Hytrin.
Does Hytrin lower blood pressure?
Yes, Hytrin is used to lower blood pressure, if you are taking it for BPH, you will see a lowering of blood pressure as well.
What is Hytrin used for?
Hytrin is indicated for the treatment of BPH and high blood pressure
Related Drugs
Reference:
Hytrin {package insert}. North Chicago, IL: Abbott Laboratories; 2009.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/019057s022lbl.pdf
Author: Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Dr. Roybal is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist who has practiced in both ambulatory and acute care settings. Her pharmacy interests include oncology and general inpatient pharmacy.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.