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Alpha Blockers

Also called: Alpha Adrenergic Antagonists, Alpha Adrenergic Blockers, Alpha Antagonists, Alpha 1 Blockers, Alpha 2 Blockers

- Summary
- About alpha blockers
- Conditions treated
- Conditions of concern
- Potential side effects
- Drug or other interactions
- Lifestyle considerations
- Symptoms of overdose
- Pregnancy use issues
- Child use issues
- Elderly use issues
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Abdou Elhendy, MD, PhD, FACC, FAHA
Robert I. Hamby, M.D., FACC, FACP
Kenneth H. Cohen, M.D., FACC

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Conditions of concern with alpha blockers

Certain situations pose concerns connected with alpha blocker use. Patients with the following conditions should discuss the benefits and risks of alpha blocker use with their physicians:

Low blood pressure (hypotension)
Prostate cancer
Arrhythmia (heart rhythm disorder)
Liver or kidney disease
Asthma or other lung disease
Blood vessel disease (e.g. atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease)
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)
Pheochromocytoma (a rare tumor)
Heart failure
Central nervous system diseases
Depression

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Review Date: 05-11-2007

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