{"id":1412,"date":"2023-11-13T16:43:20","date_gmt":"2023-11-13T16:43:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/?p=1412"},"modified":"2023-11-13T16:43:20","modified_gmt":"2023-11-13T16:43:20","slug":"alpha-blockers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/blood-pressure-medications\/alpha-blockers\/","title":{"rendered":"Reference Guide to Alpha Blockers"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b>Highlights\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Alpha blockers relax the blood vessels and treat high blood pressure and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nonselective alpha blockers are used before adrenal gland tumor removal to control blood pressure during surgery.\u00a0<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Like all medications, alpha blockers have side effects and potential interactions with other drugs.\u00a0<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your doctor may prescribe alpha blockers if you have high blood pressure or trouble urinating. These drugs can relax the smooth muscles that line the blood vessels and surround the neck of the bladder. By doing so, they allow blood vessels and the urinary tract to dilate.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Are Alpha Blockers and What Are They Used For?<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556066\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alpha blockers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, also called alpha-adrenergic antagonists, are medications that allow doctors to treat certain medical conditions without resorting to surgery.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alpha blockers are used for:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hypertension (high blood pressure)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.auanet.org\/guidelines-and-quality\/guidelines\/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-(bph)-guideline\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benign prostatic hyperplasia<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (BPH)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preparation for surgical removal of cancerous or non-cancerous tumors called <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7261201\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pheochromocytomas<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and paragangliomas\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The off-label (or non-standard) uses of these drugs cover a wider range of conditions:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7261201\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nightmares and sleep problems<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> resulting from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Circulatory problems resulting from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S1062030301557635?via%3Dihub\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Raynaud\u2019s phenomenon<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/karger.com\/uin\/article\/78\/2\/97\/327976\/Chronic-Prostatitis-Chronic-Pelvic-Pain-Syndrome\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic prostatitis and pelvic pain<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC2274914\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prostate cancer<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aafp.org\/pubs\/afp\/issues\/2018\/1015\/p496.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Urinary retention<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3980029\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart failure<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It&#8217;s important to note that while alpha blockers are effective for these conditions, they are not the only treatment option and are often used in combination with other medications. The choice of whether to use an alpha blocker and which one to use will depend on your health profile and the specific condition being treated.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>How Do Alpha Blockers Work?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alpha blockers attach to receptors in the blood vessel walls and smooth muscles, causing relaxation. They block the action of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that causes muscle contraction and the tightening of blood vessels. By doing so, alpha blockers cause the blood vessels to widen and allow more blood through. With less resistance to the flow of blood, blood pressure drops.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to blood vessels, alpha blockers can also relax the muscles of the bladder neck and prostate to improve the flow of urine, making them useful for the treatment of BPH symptoms.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alpha blockers can also improve blood flow to the extremities, making it a useful treatment for Raynaud\u2019s disease.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Alpha Blocker Subtypes<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are two subtypes of alpha blockers:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Selective alpha-1 blockers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nonselective alpha blockers, which block both type 1 and type 2 alpha receptors<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Selective Alpha-1 Blockers<\/h3>\n<div id=\"attachment_1414\" style=\"width: 790px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1414\" class=\"wp-image-1414\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/2.png\" alt=\"Tamsulosin molecule\" width=\"780\" height=\"369\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-1414\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Tamsulosin<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bearing the suffix \u201c-osin,\u201d these drugs are the most frequently used alpha blockers. Doctors may prescribe these medications to treat BPH. They may also use them to control high blood pressure, but for this purpose, these medications aren\u2019t typically first-line options.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alpha-1 blockers work by relaxing the smooth muscles around the blood vessels as well as the muscles at the neck of the bladder. As the blood vessels and urine ducts dilate, urine flows through freely, relieving some of the unpleasant symptoms of BPH.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is a list of FDA-approved alpha blockers and their uses based on the most recent data available:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=Other%20Conditions&amp;drugName=TAMSULOSIN%20HCL\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tamsulosin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Flomax): Primarily prescribed for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by relaxing muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/silodosin.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Silodosin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Rapaflo): Also used for the treatment of BPH. Similar to tamsulosin, it eases the flow of urine by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/alfuzosin.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alfuzosin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Uroxatral): Indicated for BPH, alfuzosin also relaxes the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urination flow.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=Other%20Conditions&amp;drugName=DOXAZOSIN%20MESYLATE\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doxazosin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Cardura, Carduran, Cascor, Doxadura): This medication is used for both BPH and hypertension. It relaxes the muscles of the blood vessels and the prostate, which helps in lowering blood pressure and improving urine flow.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=Other%20Conditions&amp;drugName=TERAZOSIN%20HCL\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Terazosin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Hytrin): Approved for BPH and hypertension, Terazosin can relax the blood vessels and the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/prazosin-1-mg-capsule\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prazosin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Minipress): While less commonly used for BPH, it is primarily indicated for hypertension. Prazosin relaxes the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump and lowering blood pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Warnings and Contraindications \u2014 Selective Alpha-1 Blockers<\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Never take a selective alpha-1 blocker if you are allergic to the medication or any of its components. If you notice symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek medical help immediately.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Selective alpha-1 blockers like terazosin may cause light-headedness in patients who start taking the drug or start taking it again after a pause. This light-headedness may escalate to dizziness and fainting. If you notice these side effects, consider taking the drug right before you go to bed. Don\u2019t get up quickly from a lying position, as you may feel dizzy due to the reduced blood pressure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other precautions for those taking this medication include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Don\u2019t stop abruptly<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If you stop taking a selective alpha-1 blocker and want to restart it, talk to your doctor first. Your dosage may need tweaking.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Communication is key<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Before an eye surgery, tell your doctor if you\u2019re taking an alpha-1 blocker, as these medications may affect your pupils. Only stop taking the drug if your surgeon tells you to.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Special considerations for women<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. We don\u2019t know whether drugs like terazosin or tamsulosin can harm unborn babies or toddlers by passing into the milk of lactating women. Some alpha blockers are <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK576867\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">not approved<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for use by female patients but are used off-label for certain conditions. Get personalized advice from your doctor.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Keep tabs on your blood pressure<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. While you\u2019re on this medication, your doctors may want to monitor your blood pressure and\/or prostate. Follow their instructions, and don\u2019t stop taking selective alpha-1 blockers on your own, even if you feel well.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Keep taking your medications.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> High blood pressure is often symptomless, and you may still have it without realizing it. If you must stop taking selective alpha-1 blockers, let your doctor know.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may not be able to take an alpha-1 blocker if you suffer from one of these conditions:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sulfa drug allergies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prostate cancer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low blood pressure\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always talk to your doctor about all of your medical conditions before beginning a new treatment. Read the medicine label and discuss your concerns with your doctors.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4>Side Effects \u2014 Selective Alpha-1 Blockers<\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you experience the symptoms of an allergic reaction while taking these drugs, seek medical help immediately. Allergy symptoms can include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Burning eyes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Itching<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swelling of the face, tongue, or mouth<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Urticaria (hives)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Difficulty breathing\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Less common but more severe side effects of alpha-1 blockers can include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The sensation that you are about to pass out<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-lasting, painful erections<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help as soon as possible.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the more frequent but less-severe side effects of alpha blockers are:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness or lightheadedness\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loss of libido<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abnormal ejaculation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reduced semen volume<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cough<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sore throat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diarrhea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stuffy nose<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Back pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headaches<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chest pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insomnia<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weakness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vision problems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tooth problems\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While these side effects may not warrant immediate medical attention, don\u2019t hesitate to contact your doctor if you\u2019re worried about them.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Drug Interactions \u2014 Selective Alpha-1 Blockers<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Blood pressure medications: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When combined with other antihypertensive agents, such as beta-blockers, diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or calcium channel blockers, alpha-1 blockers can cause an additive hypotensive effect, which might lead to an excessive drop in blood pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medications used for erectile dysfunction, like sildenafil (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.edrugstore.com\/viagra\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Viagra<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), tadalafil (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.edrugstore.com\/cialis\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cialis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), and vardenafil (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.edrugstore.com\/levitra\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Levitra<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), can also cause a significant drop in blood pressure when taken with alpha-1 blockers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Central nervous system (CNS) depressants: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drugs that depress the central nervous system, including opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol, may enhance the sedative effects of alpha-1 blockers, leading to increased drowsiness or dizziness.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NSAIDs may decrease the antihypertensive effects of alpha-1 blockers by inhibiting the production of vasodilating prostaglandins.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cimetidine: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This medication, used to treat stomach ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can increase plasma levels of some alpha-1 blockers, potentially intensifying their effects and side effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Antifungal agents: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Certain antifungal drugs, such as ketoconazole, can inhibit the metabolism of alpha-1 blockers, leading to increased blood levels and a higher risk of side effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>HIV protease inhibitors: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These can also inhibit the metabolism of alpha-1 blockers, increasing their concentration and the risk of adverse effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Other alpha blockers: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using more than one alpha blocker at a time can lead to an increased risk of severe hypotension.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Warfarin (coumadin): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some alpha-1 blockers may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin, an anticoagulant.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note that no drug interaction list is complete. It&#8217;s important that you inform your healthcare provider of all medications you\u2019re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to avoid potentially harmful interactions with alpha-1 blockers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you notice any new or unusual symptoms after beginning treatment, notify your doctor right away.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Non-Selective Alpha Blockers<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1415\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/3.jpeg.jpg\" alt=\"young doctor and female patient discussing alpha blockers\" width=\"780\" height=\"567\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nonselective alpha blockers are primarily used in the management of specific vascular conditions. The three nonselective alpha blockers currently approved by the FDA include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/phenoxybenzamine.html\"><b>Phenoxybenzamine<\/b><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(Dibenzyline): Approved for the treatment of pheochromocytoma to control episodes of hypertension and sweating.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/cdi\/phentolamine.html\"><b>Phentolamine<\/b><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(Regitine): Used for the prevention or control of hypertensive episodes that may occur in a patient with pheochromocytoma as a result of stress or manipulation during preoperative preparation and surgical excision.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tolazoline: This drug has been used as a vasodilator in the treatment of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC1719255\/pdf\/v088p00084.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">persistent pulmonary hypertension in newborns<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nonselective alpha blockers can also be used off-label for other conditions. Phenoxybenzamine, for instance, may be used in certain cases to manage the cardiovascular complications associated with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/2158025\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cocaine intoxication<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, due to its ability to block the effects of catecholamines.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Warnings and Contraindications \u2014 Nonselective Alpha Blockers<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before taking nonselective alpha blockers, talk to your doctor about the medications you take. People who are allergic to these medications should not be exposed to them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tell your doctor about any other allergies you may have.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your doctor may not give you nonselective alpha blockers if you have ever had one of the following conditions:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hardened coronary arteries<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other problems with your arteries<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart attack<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chest pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pressure in the chest\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Never stop taking your medication or change your dose without talking to your doctor.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re already on nonselective alpha blockers, tell your healthcare providers. If you have low blood pressure, nonselective alpha blockers may expose you to additional risks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnant and lactating women should talk to their doctors before taking nonselective alpha blockers.<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h3>Side Effects \u2014 Nonselective Alpha Blockers<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Due to the potential for significant side effects, these medications are typically managed closely by healthcare providers, with careful monitoring of blood pressure and other vital signs to ensure patient safety.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Symptoms of an allergic reaction like rash, hives, itching, swollen face, or difficulty swallowing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blurred eyesight<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drooping on one side of the face or weakness in one side of the body<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The feeling of passing out<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fast heartbeat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chest pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An abnormally bad headache\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the less-severe possible side effects of nonselective alpha blockers are:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flushing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stuffy nose<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exhaustion<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diarrhea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pain at the site of the shot<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t hesitate to call your doctor if any of these side effects persist or get worse.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Drug Interactions \u2014 Nonselective Alpha Blockers<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As with all medications, there are potential drug interactions you should be aware of. Be sure that all your providers know if you are taking any of the medications on this list:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Blood pressure medications: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other drugs that are used to manage high blood pressure may have their effects intensified by nonselective alpha blockers, potentially causing blood pressure to fall to dangerously low levels.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Epinephrine and norepinephrine: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These medications typically increase blood pressure and heart rate, but when taken with nonselective alpha blockers, they can cause a significant drop in blood pressure and a rapid heartbeat because the blockers prevent them from constricting blood vessels as they normally would.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Reserpine: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This drug lowers blood pressure by depleting certain chemicals in the nerves that cause vessels to tighten. When combined with nonselective alpha blockers, the effect on blood pressure can be more pronounced, leading to a greater risk of it becoming too low.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tizanidine: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is a muscle relaxer that also lowers blood pressure by reducing nerve signals that tighten blood vessels. When used with nonselective alpha blockers, the combined effect can lead to a substantial decrease in blood pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction, such as Viagra, which can also lower blood pressure. When used with nonselective alpha blockers, there&#8217;s a risk that blood pressure could become too low, which might lead to lightheadedness or fainting.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>CNS depressants: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medications that have a sedative effect on the central nervous system, like sleeping pills or some painkillers, can have their drowsy effects increased when taken with nonselective alpha blockers, leading to enhanced drowsiness or even deeper sedation. Alcohol is also included in this list.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Antidepressants: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some antidepressants can affect blood pressure and heart rate. When taken with nonselective alpha blockers, these effects can be unpredictable, sometimes leading to unexpected changes in blood pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No list of drug interactions is ever complete. Nonselective alpha blockers may interact with other medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Interactions may vary from one drug to another, so it\u2019s a good idea to check all the medications you\u2019re taking with the Drugs.com <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/drug_interactions.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drug Interaction Checker<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>A Final Word<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alpha blockers, including both selective and nonselective types, serve as important agents in the management of various medical conditions. While these medications offer significant benefits, it is crucial for patients and healthcare providers to be aware of their potential side effects and drug interactions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A thorough understanding of when and how to use alpha blockers will ensure the best outcomes for patients using these treatments.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Find the Lowest Price for Alpha Blockers with BidRx<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now that you\u2019ve learned about alpha blockers, it\u2019s time to find the best price! BidRx allows you to compare medication prices from hundreds of pharmacies. With BidRx, you place a bid for your prescription, and pharmacies will bid to fill your order. You simply choose the order you prefer and have it shipped to your door. To find the lowest price for your medications, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/Contents\/medication\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">get started<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with BidRx today.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Doctors use alpha blockers to manage high blood pressure and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Learn all about alpha blockers here.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1413,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1412","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blood-pressure-medications"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1412","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1412"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1412\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1416,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1412\/revisions\/1416"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1413"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1412"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1412"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1412"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}