Lippincotts Drugs to Know for the NCLEX

prazosin hydrochloride
PRA-zo-sin
Minipress
Pharmacologic class: Alpha blocker
INDICATIONS
Mild to moderate hypertension
ACTION
Unknown. Thought to act by blocking alpha-adrenergic receptors.
ADVERSE REACTIONS
CNS: dizziness, first-dose syncope, headache, drowsiness
CV: orthostatic hypotension, palpitations
GI: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea
NURSING CONSIDERATIONS
Monitor patient’s blood pressure and pulse rate frequently.
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to drug’s hypotensive effects.
Be alert for first-dose syncope if first dose is more than 1 mg.
Be aware that concurrent use of diuretics may increase the frequency of syncope.
PATIENT TEACHING
Warn patient that dizziness may occur with first dose. If he experiences dizziness, tell him to sit or
lie down. Reassure him that this effect disappears with continued dosing.
Caution patient to avoid driving or performing hazardous tasks for the first 24 hours after starting
this drug or increasing the dose.
Tell patient not to suddenly stop taking drug, but to notify prescriber if unpleasant adverse reactions
occur.
Advise patient to minimize low blood pressure and dizziness upon standing by rising slowly and
avoiding sudden position changes.