Physiotens

What is it?

An α1-agonist available as film-coated tablets in 2 strengths; pink, containing 200mg of monoxidine and red, containing 300µg of monoxidine, marked 0.2 and 0.3, respectively.

Medical Uses

Mild to moderate high blood pressure.

Dosage

Adults, 200µg in the morning to start then after 3 weeks, increase, if required to 400µg, either as single dose or divided doses. The daily maximum is 600µg.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, Parkinson's disease, glaucoma, Raynaud's disease, moderate kidney impairment, epilepsy, depression. Stop drug gradually; if using with 1blocker, this should be withdrawn a few days before ceasing Physiotens.

Avoid Use

Children, 2nd or 3rd degree heart block, coronary artery disease, heart failure, sick sinus syndrome, severe bradycardia (slow heartbeat), unstable angina, liver or kidney disease, malignant heart arrhythmia.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Depressants of central nervous system.

Known Side Effects

Weakness, headache, dry mouth, nausea, dizziness, sedation, disturbance of sleep, dilation of blood vessels. In rare cases, angioedema (widespread swelling due to fluid retention), allergic skin effects.

Manufacturer

Solvay.