Prazosin

Blood pressure medicine (alpha blocker)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Prazosin is a blood pressure medicine (alpha blocker) found in 2 medicines sold in India, such as Minipress XL 5, Prazopress XL 5. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Lowers blood pressure; also eases urine flow in an enlarged prostate.

How it works

An alpha blocker that relaxes blood vessels; for high blood pressure, prostate symptoms and sometimes nightmares in PTSD.

How to take it

Start with a low dose at bedtime because the first dose can cause fainting.

Common side effects

  • Dizziness
  • Tiredness
  • Headache
  • Stuffy nose

Get medical help straight away if

  • Fainting
  • Painful erection lasting more than 4 hours

Be careful

Can cause dizziness on standing, especially after the first dose.

Other medicines and interactions

Adds to the effect of other blood pressure medicines and PDE-5 inhibitors (sildenafil).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your doctor; used in pregnancy only if needed.

Brands of Prazosin (2)

Minipress XL 5Prazopress XL 5

Common questions

What is Prazosin used for?

Lowers blood pressure; also eases urine flow in an enlarged prostate.

How does Prazosin work?

An alpha blocker that relaxes blood vessels; for high blood pressure, prostate symptoms and sometimes nightmares in PTSD.

How should I take Prazosin?

Start with a low dose at bedtime because the first dose can cause fainting.

What are the side effects of Prazosin?

Common: Dizziness, tiredness, headache, stuffy nose. Get help straight away for: Fainting, painful erection lasting more than 4 hours.

Does Prazosin interact with other medicines?

Adds to the effect of other blood pressure medicines and PDE-5 inhibitors (sildenafil).

Is Prazosin safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask your doctor; used in pregnancy only if needed.

Does Prazosin need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Prazosin?

Minipress XL 5, Prazopress XL 5.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.