Wytensin - Talk Medical

Generic Name: guanabenz

Brands: Wytensin

What is the most important information I should know about Wytensin?

· Do not stop taking Wytensin suddenly without first talking to your doctor. This could cause severely high blood pressure, nervousness, and anxiety.

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Wytensin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

· Use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position, especially first thing in the morning. Dizziness may occur while taking Wytensin and may result in a fall.

What is Wytensin?

· Wytensin lowers blood pressure by decreasing the levels of certain chemicals in the blood. This allows the blood vessels (veins and arteries) to relax (widen).

· Wytensin is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

· Wytensin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Wytensin?

· Before taking Wytensin, tell your doctor if you have ·heart disease; ·had a heart attack or stroke; ·liver disease; or ·kidney disease.

· You may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

· Wytensin is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Wytensin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· It is not known whether Wytensin passes into breast milk and if it will affect a nursing infant. Do not take Wytensin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

· If you are over 60 years of age you may be more likely to experience side effects from Wytensin therapy. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose.

How should I take Wytensin?

· Take Wytensin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Take each dose with a full glass of water.

· Take Wytensin at bedtime unless otherwise directed by your doctor. It may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Taking it at bedtime may prevent falls and injuries.

· It is important to take Wytensin regularly to get the most benefit.

· Do not stop taking Wytensin suddenly without first talking to your doctor. This could cause severely high blood pressure, nervousness, and anxiety.

· Your doctor may want you to have blood pressure monitoring or other medical evaluations during treatment with Wytensin to monitor progress and side effects.

· Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

· Symptoms of a Wytensin overdose include drowsiness, lethargy, weakness, lightheadedness, a slow heart rate, nausea, vomiting, and possibly seizures.

What should I avoid while taking Wytensin?

· Use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position, especially first thing in the morning. Dizziness may occur while taking Wytensin and may result in a fall.

· Avoid alcohol while taking Wytensin. It may increase drowsiness an dizziness caused by Wytensin. Use caution even with small amounts of alcohol.

· Wytensin may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Wytensin is taken with any of these medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Wytensin?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Wytensin and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately: ·an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); ·a very slow heart rate (fewer than 60 beats per minute); or ·unusually high or low blood pressure (fainting, severe headache, flushing).

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Wytensin and talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following: ·unusual fatigue, dizziness, or tiredness; ·headache; ·constipation, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; ·insomnia; or ·dry mouth (sucking on ice chips or sugarless hard candy may relieve this side effect).

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Wytensin?

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Wytensin or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Wytensin written for health professionals that you may read.

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