CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson, Fear Free,
Medication: Prazosin
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Your dog has been prescribed prazosin for the treatment of congestive heart failure, benign prostatic hyperplasia, urethral spasm or hypertension (high blood pressure).
ℹ️Key points: • Alpha-1-blocker. • Vasodilator and smooth muscle relaxant. • This drug is not licensed for use in dogs. Your veterinarian will advise you as to off-license use of this medication. • Dosage: two to three times daily.
ℹ️This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. ⚠️Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Prazosin (praz-o-sin).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing prazosin.
Class of medication
- Alpha-1- blocker.
Storage
- Store at room temperature protected from light and humidity.
Why has my dog been prescribed prazosin?
Your veterinarian has prescribed prazosin for the treatment of congestive heart failure, benign prostatic hyperplasia, difficulty urinating or hypertension. Prazosin dilates blood vessels (so reducing blood pressure) and relaxes smooth muscle (helping relieve urethral spasm).
How is the medication given?
Prazosin is given orally (as capsules). It is usually administered two to three times daily but follow your veterinarian’s dosing instructions. Capsules can either be administered directly into your dog’s mouth or given with food.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Possible side-effects of prazosin include low blood pressure, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Some dogs may experience constipation. Your pet may be able to continue with the drug if side-effects are mild, but it’s best to let your veterinarian know as soon as possible if you have any concerns, so that they can decide whether additional medications or different medications are required. Prazosin interacts with many drugs including beta-blockers, diuretics and sulfonamide antibiotics. Discuss your dog’s other medications and supplements with your veterinarian.
How long will my dog need to receive this medication?
Prazosin should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. The length of treatment will vary between patients.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused prazosin safely - do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save prazosin for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period. If you accidentally double dose your pet with prazosin, call your veterinarian immediately for advice.
My dog is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Prazosin should only be given to the dog that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my dog need to be monitored while on prazosin?
No specific tests are required while your dog is taking prazosin, but your veterinarian will need to check your pet regularly to ensure that the drug is working safely and to comply with prescribing regulations.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on prazosin can be found on the package insert or via your veterinarian.Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.