Frequently asked questions for Dihydralazine
Dihydralazine
Q. What is Dihydralazine and what is it used for?
Dihydralazine belongs to a class of medicines known as potassium channel openers. It helps in the removal of potassium from the walls of arteries. This results in increased space in the arteries for the blood to flow easily, thereby reducing the workload of the heart to pump the blood. It also improves the blood and oxygen supply to your heart muscle. It is prescribed to patients with stable angina (heart-related chest pain) who cannot take other medicines (beta blockers, calcium channel antagonist) meant for the treatment of angina.Q. Can I stop taking Dihydralazine?
No, you should not stop taking Dihydralazine without consulting your doctor. Suddenly stopping the medication may cause reoccurring of your anginal pain. It would be better to consult your doctor if you are experiencing any side effects.Q. How long does it take Dihydralazine to start working?
Dihydralazine starts working after about an hour of taking the medicine. However, full benefits may be seen only after 4 to 5 days. Consult your doctor if you do not notice any significant improvement in your condition.Q. For how long do I need to continue Dihydralazine?
Dihydralazine is generally prescribed for a long term. You may even need to take it for the rest of your life. You should continue taking your medicine for as long as your doctor tells you. However, if you experience any bothersome side effects, consult your doctor.Q. What if somebody accidentally takes an excess of Dihydralazine?
Taking Dihydralazine in excess may cause low blood pressure and the person may feel weak or dizzy. Also, one may experience irregular or fast heartbeat. In case of an overdose, immediately consult the doctor and seek emergency medical help.Q. Can I take Dihydralazine if I am taking aspirin?
You should avoid taking Dihydralazine and aspirin together. Taking these two medicines together increases the risk of ulcer or bleeding in the mouth, stomach or intestine. Immediately consult your doctor, if you notice blood in your stool or vomit while using Dihydralazine.Q. Who should not use Dihydralazine?
People who are allergic to Dihydralazine or any of its ingredients should avoid using Dihydralazine. Also, patients who have heart problems such as cardiogenic shock or left ventricular failure with low filling pressure or cardiac decompensation or have a build-up of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema) should not use Dihydralazine. Additionally, it is advised to avoid using Dihydralazine in people taking medicines to treat erectile dysfunction (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil) or medicines to treat pulmonary hypertension (e.g., riociguat). This is because these medicines may interfere with the working of Dihydralazine and affect your blood pressure. Fluctuations in blood pressure could also be due to low blood volume.Q. Can Dihydralazine affect my sex life?
No, Dihydralazine does not affect your sex life. However, it is not recommended to take medicines used to treat erectile dysfunction (e.g., sildenafil or tadalafil) or premature ejaculation (e.g., vardenafil or dapoxetine) while taking Dihydralazine. Taking them together can lead to a serious drop in your blood pressure. Consult your doctor if you are not sure.