Indications 

Apresoline is a prescription medicine that is prescribed for the management of various cardiovascular conditions, including Severe Essential Hypertension, chronic high blood pressure, Hypertensive Crisis, and Congestive Heart Failure.  

It may be utilized either as monotherapy or in combination with other therapeutic modalities. 

Uses and Dosage 

Administration of this medication is via oral route, with or without food, typically 2 to 4 times per day or in accordance with the guidance of your healthcare practitioner. The dosing regimen is predicated upon your medical status and response to therapy.  

Your physician may initiate therapy with a conservative dosage and gradually escalate the dose. Follow the medical professional’s instructions meticulously. 

Consistent usage of this medication is essential for optimal outcomes. To facilitate proper adherence, consume it at the same time every day. Continue taking the medication, even if you feel well, as hypertension is often asymptomatic. The beneficial effects of this medication may take several weeks to manifest entirely. 

Abrupt cessation of this medication is not advised without consulting your physician, as discontinuation may exacerbate certain medical conditions. Dose reduction may be necessary over time. 

Notify your doctor if your symptoms worsen, such as an increase in routine blood pressure measurements. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions

Please seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as:

• Hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or throat

Severe Side Effects

Apresoline usage may cause severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider without delay if you experience any of the following symptoms: 

• Chest pain or pressure, which may spread to your jaw or shoulder 
• Rapid or pounding heartbeat 
• Feeling faint, dizzy, or as though you may lose consciousness 
• Numbness, burning pain, or tingling sensations in your feet or hands 
• Painful or difficult urination or infrequent urination 
• Joint pain or swelling, fever, muscle aches, chest pain, vomiting, unusual thoughts or behavior, or patchy skin color (resembling a lupus-like syndrome) 

Common Side Effects

The use of Apresoline may result in some common side effects, such as: 

• Chest pain or fast heart rate 
• Headache 
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite 

Caution 

Prior to commencing hydralazine therapy, kindly notify your healthcare provider or pharmacist of any allergies you may have, including to this medication or other substances. The presence of inactive ingredients may cause allergic reactions or other adverse events, necessitating discussion with your pharmacist for further clarification. 

Share your medical history, notably heart disease (such as a recent heart attack, coronary artery disease, or rheumatic heart disease of the mitral valve), blood vessel disorders, previous stroke, or kidney disease, with your physician or pharmacist before initiating treatment with this medication. 

The administration of this medication may cause dizziness. As such, consuming alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) may exacerbate this side effect. Avoid engaging in activities that require alertness such as operating machinery or driving until you are capable of performing such tasks safely. Limit alcohol intake and notify your doctor if you use marijuana (cannabis). 

Inform your healthcare provider or dentist that you are taking this medication before undergoing surgery. 

Elderly individuals may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medication, particularly dizziness, which may increase the risk of falls. 

Although this medication is excreted in breast milk, this medication is unlikely to cause harm to nursing infants. However, please consult your physician before breastfeeding while on this medication.