Apresoline 25 Mg (Hydralazine)

Apresoline is a brand name for the active ingredient hydralazine hydrochloride. It belongs to a class of drugs called peripheral vasodilators.  

• Uses: Apresoline is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It works by relaxing blood vessels, which increases blood and oxygen supply to the heart and reduces its workload. It is also used in hypertensive crises.   

  Dosage: For high blood pressure in adults, the usual starting dose is 25 mg twice a day, which can be increased to a maximum of 200 mg per day. For heart failure, treatment should begin in a hospital at a dose of 25 mg three or four times daily.  

• Warnings and Side Effects:
  • Apresoline may cause a clinical picture that simulates Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), which can include joint pain, fever, and skin rashes.  
  • It can cause symptoms of nerve damage like numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.  
  • Due to its effect on the heart, it should be used with caution in patients with heart problems, as it may cause a heart attack.

    Patients should not stop taking the medication suddenly without a doctor’s guidance, as this can lead to uncontrolled high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart problems.  

  • Common side effects include headache, an unusually fast heartbeat (palpitations), chest pains, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.  
  • More serious, but less common side effects can include low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and swelling in the hands or feet.
• Other Information: Apresoline is a prescription-only medication and is not recommended for children. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medication as it may increase the blood pressure-lowering effects.