Prazosin

(pra-zoe-sin)

Other names for this medication: Minipress

Prazosin may be used to treat urinary tract problems, high blood pressure, or heart failure.

•May be given with or without food

•The most common side effects are lack of energy and dizziness. Vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are also possible.

•Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice pale gums, weakness, severe lack of energy, or collapse. These may be signs of low blood pressure.

Description

•Alpha-blocker

•Antihypertensive agent and urinary retention agent

•Available as capsules

Uses

This medication is not FDA approved specifically for animals, but it is approved for use in humans. At the discretion of your veterinarian, this medication may be used extra-label for treatment of:

•Urinary tract problems in dogs and cats

•High blood pressure in dogs and cats

•Heart failure in dogs

Before this medication is given

No medication is 100% safe in all patients. Discuss with your veterinarian:

•Any other medications or supplements your animal is taking

•Any conditions or diseases your animal has now or has had in the past

•Any side effects your animal has had to medications in the past

•The risks of using this medication if your animal is pregnant or nursing

Warnings for animals

Do not use:

•In animals who are allergic to it or drugs like it, such as tamsulosin

Use with caution in animals with:

•Kidney problems

•Low blood pressure

•The MDR1 genetic mutation. Animals with this mutation may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication, which can result in toxicity.

Certain medications are not allowed in some animal competitions. Check rules and regulations when your animal is taking a medication.

Warnings for humans

•Wash your hands after handling any medication.

How do I give this medication?

•Give with or without food. Giving with food may decrease the chance of vomiting.

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Side effects

Common – contact your veterinarian if any of these signs are severe, continue to occur, or worsen over time:

•Lack of energy

•Dizziness

•Vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or decreased appetite

Severe – stop the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs:

•Pale gums, weakness, severe lack of energy, or collapse. These may be signs of low blood pressure.

How will I know it's working?

•If using this medication for high blood pressure, you may not be able to see its effects. Your veterinarian will need to run follow-up tests to see how well it is working.

•If using this medication for urinary problems, your animal’s signs should start improving within 1 to 2 days.

Contact your veterinary clinic if your animal’s signs worsen or do not improve.

How long will the medication effects last?

•This medication will stop working within 24 hours of the last dose.

•It may last longer if your animal has reduced liver function.

How long do I give it for?

This medication can be given for different lengths of time. Give it for as long as your veterinarian tells you. You may need to refill the prescription.

Overdose

Signs of overdose may include pale gums, severe lack of energy, weakness, uncoordinated movement, or collapse. If you witness or suspect an overdose, call your veterinarian or an animal-specific poison control center (consultation fee applies):

•ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

•Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Have the product or label with you if possible.

Missed dose

In most cases, if you miss a dose:

•Give it when you remember, then return to the regular dosing schedule.

If it is close to the time for the next dose:

•Skip the missed dose.

•Give the next dose at the next scheduled time.

•Continue the regular dosing schedule.

If you are unsure, call your veterinary clinic. Do not double-up or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store in the original container at room temperature.

•Protect from light and excess moisture.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Disposal

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash down the sink. Options for disposing of unused or expired medications include:

•Drug take back sites: This is preferred whenever possible. To find a site near you, contact your local law enforcement or waste management authorities.

•Home disposal: Mix the medication in with coffee grounds or kitty litter, seal in a plastic bag, and throw away in the trash.

Do not save leftover medication or give it to others to use.