Minipress XL 5 Mg

Medically Reviewed by

Dr. Akanksha Kaushal

Dr. Akanksha, Pharm-D

Dr. Akansha is a licensed Clinical Pharmacologist with extensive expertise in pharmacovigilance, prescription analysis, drug information, and safety. She's a dedicated educator and avid learner. Dr. Akansha also reviews medical content on GoodRx Medicine, ensuring accurate pharmaceutical information is accessible to all.

Written by

Julian Carter

Julian Carter

Julian, an MBA in Pharmaceutical Management, brings a dynamic blend of expertise and impact with his contributions at Goodrxmedicine. His dedication and innovative spirit continue to shape a brighter future in pharmaceutical management.

About Minipress XL 5 Mg

Minipress XL 5 Mg is a tablet prescribed for treating high blood pressure; it can also lower the heart attack and stroke risk.

The main active ingredient present in this medication is Prazosin, which belongs to a group of medicine known as Alpha-Blockers.

In addition, the tablet can also be used for treating mild prostate gland enlargement (Benign Prostate Hyperplasia) and heart failure. 

Minipress XL 5mg is a prescription-based medication and should be taken when recommended by a medical professional.

Pfizer Ltd manufactures Minipress XL 5mg tablets.

Uses of Minipress XL 5 mg

Minipress XL 5mg tablet is prescribed to people for the treatment of the following health conditions:

• Hypertension
• Heart failure
• Raynaud's disease
• Prostatic Hyperplasia

Take Minipress medication as per the instructions given by your general physician.

How it works

Minipress XL 5 mg tablet works by relaxing the blood vessels in the body, which helps lower elevated blood pressure levels.

Relaxed blood vessels help in reducing the heart's workload, making it more proficient in pumping blood throughout the body. This, in return, helps reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Minipress belongs to a class of drugs known as Alpha-Blockers, also called blood pressure medication in standard terms. 

Taking this medication can significantly reduce the chances of a stroke or heart attack.

Dosage

The dosage of Minipress XL 5 mg depends upon the diagnosis done by your medical professional. 

Depending on the severity of your health condition and your medical requirement, a doctor would prescribe you an appropriate Minipress XL 5mg tablet. Make sure that you take the tablet as per the instructions given by your general physician.

How to take

Minipress XL 5mg tablet should be taken as per the directions mentioned on the prescription. The tablet should be swallowed entirely with a glass of water to avoid crushing, breaking or chewing the tablet.

This tablet can be taken with or without food; however, to be effective, it should be taken at a fixed time interval, as per the doctor's advice.

Missed dose

If you miss a specific dosage of Minipress XL 5 mg tablet, take the tablet as soon as you remember. 

However, if it is almost time for your next dose, you may skip the missed dosage and continue with your regular schedule.

Overdose

Taking an overdose of Minipress XL 5mg tablet can significantly lower your blood pressure and make you experience side effects like dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, and lightheadedness.

Therefore, avoid taking an overdose of Minipress tablets. If any overdosing symptoms occur, reach out to a medical expert as soon as possible.

Side effects

Minipress XL 5 mg tablet is a safe and effective medication and should be taken as prescribed by the doctor. 

However, if the following side effects do occur after taking medication, then consult a doctor immediately:

• Dry mouth
• Skin rashes
• Blurred vision
• Lack of energy
• Nasal stuffiness
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fainting and dizziness 
• Constipation and Diarrhea
• Increased frequency of urination
• Swelling of the feet, ankles or leg
• Headache, drowsiness, or weakness

Interactions

Before taking Minipress XL 5 mg tablets, ensure your doctor knows your complete medical history. 

Certain medicines, food items and medical conditions can affect the functioning of this medication and cause an interaction.

Disease interactions

If you have any of the following pre-existing health conditions, then inform your healthcare provider before you take the Minipress tablet:

• Liver disease
• Stenosis
• Hypotension
• Kidney disease

Drug interactions

Before you take Minipress XL 5 mg tablet, make sure that you are not taking any of the following medications:

• Chlorpromazine
• Alprazolam
• Aspirin
• Diazepam
• Phenobarbital
• Atorvastatin
• Simvastatin
• Clarithromycin
• Itraconazole
• Ketoconazole
• Ritonavir
• Carbamazepine

Many other medications can cause a drug interaction with Minipress tablets; it is best to take medicine after consulting with a doctor.
Food interactions

It is generally recommended not to consume alcohol while taking Minipress XL 5 mg tablet, as it can affect the functioning of the medication.

Avoid taking a diet rich in fat, cholesterol and salt, as it can affect the medication's efficiency.

Precautions

Minipress XL 5 mg tablets should be taken with caution and safety. Take the following precautions while taking this medication:

• If you have a known allergy to Prazosin or other inactive substances, you should not use it
• Pregnant women should only take this medication if required. Before using any medication, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits
• Some patients who use this medication may experience blurred vision or dizziness Suppose you experience any such symptoms while taking this medication. In that case, it is advised that you avoid performing any tasks like operating heavy machinery or driving a car
• Do not use the medication after the expiration date has passed. Check the medicine's expiration date before taking the tablet
• Use this medication as your doctor has prescribed. Never consume more than what has been recommended or prescribed
• If you suffer any adverse effects, consult a doctor. Don't stop taking the medication before the course is over or without first talking to your doctor

Storage

Minipress XL 5 mg tablet should be stored at room temperature, in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Make sure that the tablets are kept away from the reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the use of Minipress XL 5mg?

Minipress XL 5mg tablet is used to manage high blood pressure and reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Heart failure and a minor prostate gland enlargement can also be treated with it.

Is Minipress XL a blood thinner?

Minipress XL is not a blood thinning medication. It relaxes and enlarges the blood vessels to promote more effortless blood flow.

What happens if you stop taking Minipress?

If you stop taking Minipress XL 5mg tablet, the risk of experiencing severe health complications like heart attack and stroke increases. 

Therefore, do not stop taking the tablet without first consulting a doctor.

Where to buy Minipress XL 5 mg tablet?

Minipress XL 5 mg tablet is a prescription-based medication that can be bought from any pharmaceutical or online medical store.