phenoxybenzamine Health Article

Generic name(s):

phenoxybenzamine

Brand name(s):

Dibenzyline

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

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Phenoxybenzamine may cause dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities. If you experience dizziness, rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid falling. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking phenoxybenzamine. Do not take cough, cold, allergy, or diet pills without the approval of your doctor.

What is phenoxybenzamine?

Phenoxybenzamine lowers blood pressure. It is used to treat episodes of high blood pressure and sweating associated with pheochromocytoma.

Although not approved by the FDA for this purpose, phenoxybenzamine has also been used to treat urinary problems.

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

Who should not take phenoxybenzamine?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

• heart disease or

• kidney disease.

You may not be able to take phenoxybenzamine, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

The safety of phenoxybenzamine for use by pregnant or nursing women has not been established. Do not take phenoxybenzamine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take phenoxybenzamine?

Take phenoxybenzamine 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. Store phenoxybenzamine 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 your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a phenoxybenzamine overdose include dizziness, fainting, a fast heartbeat, vomiting, and fatigue.

What should I avoid while taking phenoxybenzamine?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Phenoxybenzamine may cause dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities. Also, rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid falling. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking phenoxybenzamine.

What are the possible side effects of phenoxybenzamine?

Stop taking phenoxybenzamine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take phenoxybenzamine and talk to your doctor if you experience

• nasal congestion;

• small pupils;

• dizziness (especially upon rising);

• fast heartbeat;

• inhibition of ejaculation;

• upset stomach; or

• drowsiness.

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 phenoxybenzamine?

Do not take cough, cold, allergy, or diet pills without the approval of your doctor.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with phenoxybenzamine or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Where can I get more information?

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

What does my medication look like?

Phenoxybenzamine is available with a prescription under the brand name Phenoxybenzamine. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• Phenoxybenzamine 10 mg--red capsules

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.