When first taking an alpha blocker, patients should avoid operating heavy machinery (e.g., driving) until they know how the medication will affect them. Some patients on alpha blockers to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) will be taking the medication for the rest of their lives, provided no serious side effects occur.

Patients should remember that alpha blockers control high blood pressure, but do not cure it. Even if all their symptoms are relieved, patients should continue to take their medication exactly as directed and to keep all scheduled follow-up appointments with their physicians.

Patients should take and record their blood pressure readings regularly, reporting anything unusual to their physician.