Phenoxybenzamine is one of a group of drugs known as alpha blockers. This medication is used to treat high blood pressure or a related serious condition called pheochromocytoma. It is also commonly used in the management of a number of bladder problems. This drug has a variety of side effects and is not recommended for patients with heart conditions or for pregnant or nursing mothers.
As an alpha blocker, phenoxybenzamine works to reduce high blood pressure, particularly when caused by pheochromocytoma. High blood pressure occurs when the force of the blood pumping through the blood vessels becomes too great. The blood vessels become constricted, partially clogged, or lose their elasticity. This is most commonly caused by a variety of diseases or poor lifestyle choices.
Pheochromocytoma is a tumorous growth on the adrenal glands. The growth disrupts the complex function of the glands. One of the many effects of this disease is the production of too much of a chemical that causes the blood vessels to constrict significantly, thereby raising blood pressure to potentially dangerous levels. This chemical attaches to the alpha receptors located on the wall of the blood vessels and instructs them to constrict. Phenoxybenzamine blocks the chemical and prevents it from attaching to the alpha receptors which stops the blood vessels from constricting and helps to maintain appropriate blood pressure.
The pheochromocytoma disorder also causes extreme sweating which is potentially very serious. Continuous, excessive perspiration can cause dehydration and dangerous salt and electrolyte imbalances because water, salt, and minerals quickly leave the body. Phenoxybenzamine works to reduce the production of sweat to help the body maintain homeostasis. This medication can also help relieve overactive bladder syndrome and urgency incontinence.
Side effects of phenoxybenzamine can include lightheadedness and impaired vision. Patients are advised not to drive or operate machinery while the medication is in the system and any side effects the patient may experience have been identified. Tachycardia, low blood pressure, and male sexual dysfunction are also common side effects of this drug.
Phenoxybenzamine should not be taken with narcotic pain medications, seizure control drugs, or other blood pressure medications, including both alpha and beta blockers. It is also not recommended for patients with preexisting heart conditions. This medication is seldom prescribed to pregnant women or nursing mothers. If used during pregnancy, the baby may suffer dangerously low blood pressure, tachycardia, or developmental problems. With nursing mothers, the drug can be present in the breast milk and can therefore easily be passed to the infant.