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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking hydralazine (Apresoline)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to hydralazine, or if you have:

• coronary artery disease; or
• rheumatic heart disease affecting the mitral valve.

Before taking hydralazine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• kidney disease,
• lupus;
• angina pectoris (chest pain); or
• if you have ever had stroke.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Hydralazine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take hydralazine (Apresoline)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition and is not causing harmful effects, your blood pressure will need to be checked often. You may also need occasional blood tests. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Keep using hydralazine as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so you may not know when your blood pressure is high. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

Store hydralazine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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