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$Title{guanadrel}
$Subject{Hylorel Pennwalt Anti-hypertensive guanadrel sulfate salt high blood
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Copyright (C) 1993 Publications International, Ltd.


guanadrel
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BRAND NAME (Manufacturer)

     Hylorel (Pennwalt)

TYPE OF DRUG

     Anti-hypertensive

INGREDIENT

     guanadrel as the sulfate salt

DOSAGE FORM

     Tablets (10 mg and 25 mg)

STORAGE

     Guanadrel tablets should be stored at room temperature, in a tightly
closed container.

USES

     Guanadrel is used to control high blood pressure.  It works by blocking
the action of the body chemicals responsible for increasing blood pressure.

TREATMENT

     Guanadrel can be taken either on an empty stomach or, to avoid stomach
irritation, with food or milk (as directed by your doctor).  Try to take your
doses at the same times each day, in order to become accustomed to taking this
medication.
     This medication does not cure high blood pressure, but it will help to
control the condition.
     If you miss a dose of this medication, take the missed dose as soon as
possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose.  In that case, do not
take the missed dose at all; just return to your regular dosing schedule.  Do
not double the next dose.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; dry throat or mouth;
fatigue; gas; headache; loss of appetite; nausea; sleep disorders; stomach
upset; and weight gain or loss.  These side effects should disappear in
several weeks, as your body adjusts to the medication.
     To relieve constipation, increase the amount of fiber in your diet (bran,
salads, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole-grain breads), and drink more
water (unless your doctor directs you to do otherwise).
     If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down awhile; change positions slowly, and
be careful on stairs.
     To help relieve mouth dryness, chew sugarless gum, or suck on ice chips
or a piece of hard candy.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or
particularly bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about
backache; blurred vision; chest pain; confusion; coughing; depression;
fainting; impotence; increased urination; joint pain; leg cramps; mental
disorders; mouth sores; palpitations; rapid weight gain (three to five pounds
within a week); shortness of breath; or tingling sensations.

INTERACTIONS

     Guanadrel interacts with several other types of drugs.
     1. Concurrent use of guanadrel and alcohol can lead to fainting and
extreme drowsiness.
     2. Amphetamines, diet preparations, ephedrine, methylphenidate,
phenothiazine tranquilizers, phenylpropanolamine, and tricyclic
anti-depressants can decrease the beneficial effects of guanadrel.
     3. Concurrent use of guanadrel with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors
can lead to serious side effects.  At least one week should separate doses of
these two types of medications.
     TELL YOUR DOCTOR if you are already taking any of the medications listed
above.

WARNINGS

     * Tell your doctor about unusual or allergic reactions you have had to
any medications, especially to guanadrel.
     * Before starting to take this medication, be sure to tell your doctor if
you now have, or if you have ever had, asthma, fevers, heart or blood vessel
disease, peptic ulcers, pheochromocytoma, or a slowed heartbeat.
     * If this drug makes you dizzy or drowsy, or blurs your vision, avoid
taking part in activities that require alertness.
     * Before having any surgery or other medical or dental treatment, be sure
to tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication.
     * Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter
(non-prescription) asthma, allergy, cough, cold, diet, or sinus preparation.
Some of these products can decrease the effectiveness of guanadrel.
     * To prevent feeling faint, you should avoid drinking alcoholic
beverages.  You should also avoid standing for prolonged periods, excessive
exercising, and exposure to hot showers and saunas.
     * Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant.  Although guanadrel
appears to be safe during pregnancy, extensive studies in humans have not yet
been completed.  Also, tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding an infant.
It is not known whether or not guanadrel passes into breast milk.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.