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Guanabenz Acetate Information – Side Effects, Uses and Benefits

1 June 2007

Written by: steve Posted under Antihypertensives

Guanabenz Acetate – Guidelines for Using Guanabenz Acetate- Uses and Benefits

Type of Drug:

Antihypertensive; blood pressure-lowering agent.

How the Guanabenz Acetate Product Works:

Guanabenz acetate lowers blood pressure, primarily by relaxing and dilating (widening) blood vessels. Blood flows more freely at a lower pressure.

Uses of The Guanabenz Acetate:

To treat high blood pressure alone or in conjunction with a diuretic (water pill).

Precautions:

Do not use in the following situations:Allergy to the drug or any of its ingredients.

Use with caution in the following situations:

coronary insufficiency
heart attack, recent
kidney disease, severe
liver disease, severe
stroke, history of

Discontinuing treatment: Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Abrupt withdrawal of treatment may result in high blood pressure.

Pregnancy: There are no adequate studies and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.

Breastfeeding: It is not known if guanabenz acetate appears in breast milk.

Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Drug Interactions:

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or planning to take any overÂthe-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements while taking this drug. Drug doses may need to be modified or a different drug prescribed.

Side Effects of The Guanabenz Acetate:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many patients experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Digestive Tract: Nausea: vomititng;stomach pain;diarrhea;constipation;dry mouth.

Nervous System: Depression; sleep disturbances; dizziness; drowsiness; headache; anxiety; taste disturbances; blurred vision; weakness.

Circulatory System: Irregular heartbeat; chest pain; pounding in the chest.

Respiratory System: Difficulty breathing; nasal congestion.

Other: Edema (fluid retention); muscle pain in arms and legs; breast growth in males; impotenc;, decreased sex drive; urinary frequency; rash; itching.

Guidelines for Use:

Dosage is individualized. Take exactly as prescribed.
Take twice a day. Do not exceed 32 mg twice daily.
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised to do so by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication daily as directed, have your blood pressure checked regularly, and keep your appointments with your doctor even if you feel well. Most patients with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly or without consulting your doctor. Abrupt withdrawal of treatment may result in high blood pressure.
Patients being treated for high blood pressure often feel tired or runÂdown for a few weeks after beginning therapy. Continue taking your medication even though you may not feel quite “normal.” Contact your doctor or pharmacist about any new symptoms.
This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity.
Avoid alcohol and other mental depressants (eg, tranquilizers) while you are taking this medicine. They may cause excessive drowsiness.
Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Keep appointments.
Store at room temperature (68 to 77 F) in a tightly closed container. Protect from light.