Apresazide (Hydralazine and Hydrochlorothiazide) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 24, 2012

Apresazide

High Blood Pressure »

High blood pressure facts

High blood pressure (hypertension) is designated as either essential (primary) hypertension or secondary hypertension and is defined as a consistently elevated blood pressure exceeding 140/90 mm Hg.
High blood pressure is called "the silent killer" because it often causes no symptoms for many years, even decades, until it finally damages certain critical organs.
Poorly controlled high blood pressure ultimately can cause damage to blood vessels in the eye, thickening of the heart muscle and heart attacks, hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis), kidney failure, and strokes.
Most antihypertensive medications can be used alone or in combination. Some are used only in combination. Some are preferred over others in certain specific medical situations. And some are not to be used (contraindicated) in other situations.
Several classes of antihypertensive medications are available, including ACE i...

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Apresazide

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Please Note: This Brand Name drug is no longer available in the US.
(Generic versions may still be available.)

Apresazide Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

HYDRALAZINE/HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE - ORAL

(hye-DRAL-a-zeen/HYE-droe-KLOR-oh-THYE-a-zide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Apresazide

WARNING: This product contains 2 drugs (hydralazine and hydrochlorothiazide). Generally, it should not be used when treating high blood pressure for the first time. Your doctor should first give you each of the drugs separately so that he or she can find the best dose of each drug for you. Use this combination product only if your doctor has decided that the doses of each drug in this product are right for your condition. Your doctor may need to continually adjust your medications depending on your condition.

USES: This medication contains 2 drugs (hydralazine and hydrochlorothiazide) and is used to treat high blood pressure. Hydralazine is called a vasodilator. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow through the body more easily. Hydrochlorothiazide is a "water pill" (diuretic). It works by increasing the amount of urine that you make. This effect causes your body to get rid of extra salt and water, which probably also helps relax the blood vessels. These 2 drugs are used together when 1 medication is not controlling your blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually twice daily or as directed by your doctor. It is best to avoid taking this medication within 4 hours of your bedtime to avoid having to get up to urinate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your dosing schedule.

Cholestyramine and colestipol can decrease the absorption of this medication. If you are taking either of these drugs, take them at least 4 hours apart from this medication.

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Your doctor may start you at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. It may take up to several weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Tell your doctor if your condition worsens (for example, your routine blood pressure readings increase).