Alpha1-adrenergic Blockers are drugs that work by blocking the
alpha1-receptors of vascular smooth muscle, that is by relaxing the blood
vessels, allowing blood to pass through more easily. These drugs are
available only with a physician's prescription and are sold in tablet form.
Uses of Alpha 1 Blockers
The Alpha Blockers drugs are for two main
uses:
To treat high blood pressure (hypertension)
High blood pressure
puts a strain on the heart and the arteries. Over time, hypertension can
damage the blood vessels enough to cause stroke, heart failure or kidney
failure. People with high blood pressure also may be at higher risk for
heart attacks. Controlling high blood pressure makes these problems less
likely. By relaxing the blood vessels and letting blood flow through more
easily, Alpha Blockers help lower blood pressure.
To treat benign prostatic hyperplasia
This is a condition in men in
which the prostate gland enlarges. This condition is a particular problem
for older men. Over time, the prostate, a donut-shaped gland below the
bladder, enlarges. When this happens, it may interfere with the passage of
urine from the bladder out of the body. Men who have the problem may notice
that they have to urinate more often. Or they may feel that they can not
completely empty their bladders. Alpha Blockers do not shrink the prostate.
But by relaxing muscles in the prostate and the bladder, these drugs may
allow urine to flow more freely.
Commonly used Alpha1-adrenergic Blockers
- Doxazosin (Brand: Cardura): Used for Hypertension and BPH
- Terazosin (Brand: Hytrin): Used for Hypertension and BPH
- Silodosin (Brand: Rapaflo): Used for Benign prostatic
hyperplasia
- Prazosin (Brand: Minipress): Used for Hypertension
- Tamsulosin (Brand: Flomax): Used for Benign prostatic
hyperplasia
- Alfuzosin (Brand: Uroxatral): Used for Benign prostatic
hyperplasia
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Recommended Dosage of Alpha Blockers
This depends on the type of
alpha blocker and also the patient and this may change over the course of
treatment. The dose is increased gradually if required. Some patients may
need as much as 16 mg per day of doxazosin, 15-20 mg per day of terazosin,
or as much as 40 mg per day of prazosin. It is seen that most patients
benefit from lower doses. As the dosage increases, so does the chances of
unwanted side effects.
Side Effects of Alpha1 Blockers
At times the drug can reduce the
blood pressure to a great extent that can cause dizziness, heart
palpitations, lightheadedness, and fainting for the patient. it is advisable
not to undertake such activities like driving, using machines, for 24 hours
after taking the first dose. Any patient's whose safety on the job could be
affected by taking this drug should inform his doctor, so that the doctor
can take this factor into account when increasing dosage. Some people may
feel drowsy or less alert when using alpha blockers. People diagnosed with
kidney disease or liver disease may also be more sensitive to alpha
blockers.