Generic name:
Guanabenz acetate
Pronounced: GWAHN-ah-benz
Why is Guanabenz acetate prescribed?
This drug is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is
effective used alone or in combination with a thiazide type of
diuretic. Guanabenz begins to lower blood pressure within 60 minutes
after taking a single dose and may slow your pulse rate slightly.
Most important fact about Guanabenz acetate
You must take guanabenz regularly for it to be effective. Since
blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before
you get the full benefit of guanabenz; and you must continue taking
it even if you are feeling well. Guanabenz does not cure high blood
pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Guanabenz acetate?
Guanabenz may be taken with or without food. Take it exactly as
prescribed.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the
next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time. If you forget the
medication 2 or more times in a row, contact your doctor.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature, in a tightly closed container, away
from light.
Guanabenz acetate side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking guanabenz.
- More common side effect may include:
Dizziness,
drowsiness,
dry mouth,
headache,
weakness
Why should Guanabenz acetate not be prescribed?
Do not take guanabenz if you are sensitive to it or have ever had
an allergic reaction to it.
Special warnings about Guanabenz acetate
Guanabenz can make you drowsy or less alert. Driving or operating
dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that
requires full mental alertness is not recommended until you know how
Guanabenz acetate affects you.
If you have severe heart disease, stroke or related disorders, or
severe liver or kidney failure, or if you have recently had a heart
attack, Guanabenz acetate should be used with caution.
Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure if you have
disorders of the kidney or liver.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Guanabenz acetate
Guanabenz may intensify the effects of alcohol. Use of alcohol
should be avoided.
If guanabenz is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of
either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially
important to check with your doctor before combining guanabenz with
the following:
Antihistamines such as Benadryl, Chlor-Trimeton, and Tavist
Drugs that depress the central nervous system such as Halcion,
Valium, and phenobarbital
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of guanabenz during pregnancy have not been
adequately studied, but it may affect the fetus. If you are pregnant
or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.
Guanabenz may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing
infant. If Guanabenz acetate is essential to your health, your doctor
may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is
finished.
Recommended dosage for Guanabenz acetate
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If
you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
- Symptoms of guanabenz overdose may include:
Excessive contraction of the pupils,
irritability
low blood pressure,
sleepiness,
slow heartbeat,
sluggishness
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