Understanding Alpha-Blockers: Uses and Side Effects

Alpha-blockers are a class of medications commonly prescribed to treat conditions like high blood pressure and benign prostatic hyperplasia. They work by relaxing the muscles in the blood vessels and prostate, which helps to improve urine flow.
Category
Drug
Where to get
Prescription medication available through healthcare providers.
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

Alpha-blockers FAQ


Image credit: healthjade.com

What is an alpha blocker?

When the term "alpha blocker" is used without further qualification, it can refer to an α 1 blocker, an α 2 blocker, a nonselective blocker (both α 1 and α 2 activity), or an α blocker with some β activity. However, the most common type of alpha blocker is usually an α 1 blocker.

What are examples of alpha blockers used to treat high blood pressure?

Examples of alpha blockers used to treat high blood pressure include: Doxazosin (Cardura). Prazosin (Minipress). Terazosin. Alpha blockers typically aren't the first treatment option for high blood pressure. Instead, they're used together with other medicines, such as diuretics, when high blood pressure is difficult to control.

Do alpha blockers lower blood pressure?

Alpha blockers lower blood pressure by keeping a hormone called norepinephrine from tightening the muscles in the walls of smaller arteries and veins. As a result, the blood vessels remain open and relaxed. This improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure. Alpha blockers also relax other muscles throughout the body.

What are some examples of alpha blockers?

Alpha blockers also are called alpha-adrenergic blocking agents, alpha-adrenergic antagonists, adrenergic blocking agents, alpha-blocking agents and alpha-1 blockers. Examples of alpha blockers used to treat high blood pressure include: Doxazosin (Cardura). Prazosin (Minipress). Terazosin.

What are alpha blockers used for?

Alpha-blockers are medicines that are mainly used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and problems with passing urine in men who have enlargement of the prostate gland. Prostate gland enlargement is also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). What are alpha-blockers used for?

How do alpha-blockers treat high blood pressure?

Alpha-blockers treat high blood pressure by stopping A1 and A2 receptors from activating. Blocking that activation relaxes blood vessels, lowering blood pressure. Approved alpha-blockers for high blood pressure include: Doxazosin. Prazosin. Terazosin.

Alpha-blockers References

If you want to know more about Alpha-blockers, consider exploring links below:

Explore Related Topics

How long is the recovery period after surgical intervention for prostate health?

Engage in a discussion about the recovery period following surgical interventions for prostate health conditions and share your experiences or tips for a smoother recovery.