Hydralazine relaxes the muscle in the artery walls directly, which widens them and lowers blood pressure. It is used as tablets and, in the injectable form, for dangerously high blood pressure in hospital and in pregnancy.

What Hydralazine Is Used For

High blood pressure, usually with other medicines
Severe high blood pressure in pregnancy and pre eclampsia
Heart failure, in combination with nitrates
Hypertensive emergencies, by injection

Common Side Effects

Headache and flushing
Fast heartbeat and palpitations
Dizziness on standing
Fluid retention

Precautions

It is usually combined with a beta blocker and a diuretic, which offset the fast pulse and fluid retention it can cause. On long term higher doses it can trigger a lupus like reaction, so report persistent joint pain, rash, fever or unexplained tiredness. Stand up slowly, and do not stop it suddenly.

This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.