Hydralazine hydrochloride
Hydralazine hydrochloride is a direct-acting peripheral vasodilator that selectively relaxes arterial smooth muscle. This action reduces peripheral vascular resistance and lowers blood pressure. It is often combined with other antihypertensives or beta-blockers to offset reflex tachycardia and fluid retention.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be strictly individualized and adjusted according to the patient's blood pressure response and tolerance. Pediatric dosing is based on weight, usually starting at 0.75 mg/kg/day divided into 2 to 4 doses, and can be gradually increased. Always consult a healthcare provider before altering the dose.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy are not established for routine use in this weight range. Only use under strict specialist supervision.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 1.25 mg to 2.5 mg
- Frequency
- 3 to 4 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Corresponds to a conservative starting range. Monitor heart rate and blood pressure closely.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 2 mg to 3.75 mg
- Frequency
- 3 to 4 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Adjustments should be made slowly over several days to minimize side effects.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 2.5 mg to 5 mg
- Frequency
- 3 to 4 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure consistent administration with respect to meals to maintain stable absorption.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 3.75 mg to 7.5 mg
- Frequency
- 3 to 4 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Do not exceed a maximum total daily dose of 7.5 mg/kg/day or 200 mg/day.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy are not established for routine use in this weight range. Only use under strict specialist supervision. |
| 5-7 kg | 1.25 mg to 2.5 mg | 3 to 4 times daily | Corresponds to a conservative starting range. Monitor heart rate and blood pressure closely. |
| 8-10 kg | 2 mg to 3.75 mg | 3 to 4 times daily | Adjustments should be made slowly over several days to minimize side effects. |
| 11-15 kg | 2.5 mg to 5 mg | 3 to 4 times daily | Ensure consistent administration with respect to meals to maintain stable absorption. |
| 16-20 kg | 3.75 mg to 7.5 mg | 3 to 4 times daily | Do not exceed a maximum total daily dose of 7.5 mg/kg/day or 200 mg/day. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat essential hypertension (high blood pressure), hypertensive emergencies (especially during pregnancy or preeclampsia), and congestive heart failure in combination with isosorbide dinitrate.
Generic Name
Hydralazine hydrochlorideBranded Drug Names
Hydralazine hydrochloride is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.