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Hydralazine: uses, side effects & brands
Hydralazine relaxes blood vessels and is used in pregnancy and heart failure. It belongs to the Blood-pressure medicine (extra) group. These lower blood pressure by additional mechanisms, often used when first-line drugs are not enough.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Blood-pressure medicine (extra) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Severe high blood pressure in pregnancy (often by injection in hospital)
- Heart failure, together with isosorbide dinitrate
- High blood pressure, added to other medicines
Common brand names
- India: Nepresol
- Worldwide: Apresoline
Common side effects
- Headache
- Fast heartbeat or palpitations
- Flushing
- Ankle swelling
Before taking it — precautions
- Tell your doctor about angina or coronary heart disease, as the fast heartbeat can bring on chest pain
- Tell your doctor if you have had lupus
- Tell your doctor about kidney disease
When to see a doctor urgently
- Chest pain (urgent)
- Joint pains, fever and rash (possible lupus-like reaction)
- Fainting or feeling very faint
Frequently asked questions
What is drug-induced lupus?
Long-term hydralazine can rarely cause joint pain, fever and rash resembling lupus. It usually settles after stopping, under medical advice.
Why is it given with isosorbide in heart failure?
The combination relaxes both arteries and veins and has been shown to help some people with heart failure.
Is it safe in pregnancy?
Yes, it is one of the medicines commonly used for severe high blood pressure in pregnancy, under specialist care.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.