Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/3/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Apresoline
  
• Generic Name: Hydralazine
  
• Uses: Treating high blood pressure (hypertension)
  
• Drug Class: Vasodilator
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Hydralazine is a vasodilator used primarily to treat high blood pressure. It works by relaxing the muscles in the walls of blood vessels, helping them widen and lowering blood pressure.

Hydralazine is primarily used to treat conditions such as:

• High blood pressure (hypertension): Helps lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as strokes and heart attacks.
  
  

It may also be used in conjunction with other medications in the treatment of certain types of heart failure, although it is not FDA-approved for this purpose.

Hydralazine works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the walls of arteries, allowing them to widen. This decrease in the resistance that blood encounters as it flows through the vessels leads to a reduction in blood pressure.

Hydralazine can be taken in different forms, depending on the specific needs:

• Oral tablets: Typically taken three to four times daily.
  
  

The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and your response to the medication.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.

The effectiveness of hydralazine and the time it takes to notice improvement can vary among individuals. Blood pressure reduction can generally be observed within hours of taking the medication, but it may take several weeks to achieve desired blood pressure control.

Continue taking hydralazine as prescribed even if you start feeling better. Do not abruptly stop the medication, as it may lead to a rapid increase in blood pressure.

While hydralazine is primarily used for managing hypertension, healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe it off-label for conditions such as:

• Certain types of heart failure
  
• To control blood pressure during pregnancy
  
  

Discuss any alternative uses of hydralazine with your healthcare provider.

Hydralazine is available in the following dosage forms:

• Oral tablets: Typically available in 10mg, 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg dosages.
  
  

Generic versions of hydralazine are available, providing cost-effective treatment options.

Hydralazine is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.