Efficacy and safety of intravenous terazosin in hypertensive patients. A preliminary report.

Intravenous Terazosin for Hypertensive Patients: A Pilot Study

This study examines the efficacy and safety of intravenous terazosin in treating hypertension. The researchers administered single intravenous doses of terazosin (1, 2, and 5 mg) to hypertensive patients in a randomized, double-blind, crossover study. They monitored blood pressure and pulse rate before and after drug administration, alongside analyzing drug concentrations in blood and urine.

Rapid Onset and Duration of Action

The study found that intravenous terazosin effectively reduced blood pressure, with significant reductions observed as early as 10 minutes after infusion. The onset of the antihypertensive effect occurred within two hours in most patients, and the duration of action lasted for at least six hours in 40% of responders. The peak antihypertensive effect was observed approximately four hours after administration.

Mild Side Effects and Pharmacokinetic Profile

The study noted mild side effects, such as headache, nasal congestion, and lightheadedness, indicating that intravenous terazosin appears to be well-tolerated. The researchers found that terazosin elimination followed a biexponential fashion with a half-life of about 12 hours. This information is crucial for understanding the pharmacokinetics of the drug and optimizing dosing strategies.

Dr.Camel's Conclusion

This study provides a promising glimpse into the potential of intravenous terazosin for treating hypertension. The rapid onset of action and the reasonable duration of effect suggest that this could be a valuable tool for managing acute hypertensive episodes. The study's findings pave the way for further research to explore the optimal dosing strategies and long-term safety of intravenous terazosin in the context of hypertension management.