Indicated for: hypertension; benign prostatic hyperplasia
Route of administration: oral
Substance: terazosin (alpha-1 blocker)
ATC: G04CA03 (Genito urinary system and sex hormones | Drugs used in benign prostatic hypertrophy | Alpha-adrenoreceptor antagonists)
Terazosin is a medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate that can cause difficulty urinating. It belongs to the class of alpha-blockers, which work by relaxing the muscles in the walls of blood vessels and the prostate, improving blood flow and easing urination.
For hypertension, terazosin helps lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications such as heart attacks or strokes. In BPH, it alleviates symptoms like frequent urination, weak urinary stream, or the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
Terazosin is taken orally, usually once daily, preferably at bedtime, to minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure. Common side effects include dizziness, fatigue, headaches, and occasionally orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing).