HYDRALAZINE

Why has my veterinarian prescribed Hydralazine for my dog?

Hydralazine is used to treat high blood pressure by decreasing the workload of the heart and arteries. It is also used as an added treatment in congestive heart failure.

How do I give Hydralazine to my dog?

• Give this medication to your dog as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Give this medication with meals.
• If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time each day.
• DO NOT give your dog more medicine than directed and do not give more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give  your dog two doses at once.

How do I store Hydralazine?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

What are the potential side effects?

• The most common side effects include: low blood pressure, fast heart rate, water retention, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Sometimes  your dog may appear weak and tired, however, these effects may disappear in a few days.
• Contact your veterinarian if  your dog's condition deteriorates or if  your dog becomes very tired and depressed.
• Notify your veterinarian if side effects are noted and they are troublesome.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Are there any possible drug interactions?

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your dog.
• Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• The following drugs can potentially interact with hydralazine: sympathomimetics, propranolol, other antihypertensive agents, and epinephrine.
• Contact your veterinarian if your dog experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

REMEMBER!  READ THE LABEL.

Based on material written by Rita Ozolins, B.Sc., Phm. and modified with permission from Lifelearn Inc.
© Copyright 2005 Lifelearn Inc.