Guanabenz

Who is Guanabenz for ?

Guanabenz is used to treat high blood pressure. It works by decreasing your heart rate and relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through the body. this medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

When should I be careful taking Guanabenz ?

Before taking guanabenz,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to guanabenz or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other medications for high blood pressure, amitriptyline (Elavil), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Adepin, Sinequan), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor), protriptyline (Vivactil), sleeping pills, trimipramine (Surmontil), and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had coronary artery disease, kidney or liver disease, or a heart attack.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking guanabenz, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking guanabenz.
• you should know that this drug may make you drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• ask your doctor about the safe use of alcohol while you are using guanabenz. Alcohol can make the side effects from guanabenz worse.

Side Effects

Although side effects from guanabenz are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• dry mouth
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• weakness
• headache
• decreased sexual ability
• upset stomach

• fainting
• increased or decreased heartbeat
• irregular heartbeat
• swollen ankles or feet