Possible side effects when taking antihypertensives include:

• Allergic reaction
  
  
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
  
  
• Arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm)
  
  
• Palpitations (pounding or galloping heartbeat)
  
  
• Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting (syncope)
  
  
• Headache
  
  
• Edema (swelling) in the legs
  
  
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity), causing severe sunburn or rash
  
  
• Drowsiness, weakness, tiredness or fatigue
  
  
• Unusual bleeding
  
  
• Back or joint pain
  
  
• Abdominal discomfort, nausea, diarrhea or constipation
  
  
• Unusual skin appearance (rash, blue tinge, or a yellow tinge called jaundice)
  
  
• Shallow, dry cough (especially with ACE inhibitors)
  
  
• Impotence
  
  
• Depression

A recently discovered potential complication of alpha blockers is an eye condition called intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS), which can interfere with cataract surgery. This complication is of particular concern because diabetes and obesity have been found to increase men’s risk of prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia), for which alpha blockers are often prescribed, and diabetes increases the risk of cataracts. Patients who have ever taken alpha blockers should inform their ophthalmologist before cataract surgery because different surgical techniques may be used to ensure a successful outcome.