Hydralazine Disease Interactions

Hydralazine may rarely cause blood dyscrasias at recommended dosages. Reduction in hemoglobin, red cell count, agranulocytosis, leukopenia, and purpura have been reported. Therapy with hydralazine should be administered cautiously in patients with these preexisting conditions and if such abnormalities develop during the course of therapy, treatment should be discontinued. Monitoring blood counts should be considered for those patients at higher risk.

The use of hydralazine is contraindicated in patients with coronary artery disease. Reflex tachycardia may commonly occur. Palpitations and chest pain have also been reported. Myocardial infarction has been associated with the use of hydralazine.

The use of hydralazine has been associated with the development of lupus erythematosus and lupus-like syndromes, as well as exacerbation of the disease. Hydralazine therapy should be withdrawn in patients experiencing worsening of preexisting lupus. Monitoring complete blood counts, and antinuclear antibody titers before and during prolonged therapy is recommended.

The use of hydralazine is contraindicated in patients with mitral valvular rheumatic heart disease.

The vasodilatory effects of hydralazine may aggravate cerebral vasculopathy. Therapy with hydralazine should be administered cautiously in patients with cerebral vasculopathy.

The use of hydralazine has been associated with the development of glomerulonephritis. Hydralazine should be used with caution in patients with advanced renal damage and these patients may require a lower dose. Renal function should be monitored and supported as required.