Phenoxybenzamine - an alpha-blocker

About phenoxybenzamine

Phaeochromocytoma is a tumour of your adrenal glands. With phaeochromocytoma, large quantities of chemicals are released from your adrenal glands, which narrow (constrict) your blood vessels. This causes episodes where your blood pressure increases significantly.

The treatment of choice for phaeochromocytoma is removal of the tumour by surgery. Phenoxybenzamine is sometimes prescribed as a short-term option in preparation for the surgery. It works by blocking sites on your blood vessels, known as alpha receptors. This blocking action reduces your high blood pressure.

Before taking phenoxybenzamine

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine can only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking phenoxybenzamine it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you have problems with the way your kidneys work.

• If you have heart disease, or if you have recently had a heart attack.

• If you have ever had a stroke.

• If you have a rare inherited blood disorder called porphyria.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take phenoxybenzamine

• Before you start the treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about phenoxybenzamine, and will also provide you with a full list of side-effects which you could experience from taking it.

• When you start the treatment, your doctor will give you a small dose (one capsule a day) and will then gradually increase your dose over the next few days as necessary. Take phenoxybenzamine capsules exactly as your doctor tells you to. The directions will be printed on the label of the pack of capsules to remind you about what the doctor said to you.

• Try to take your doses at the same time of day each day, as this will help you to remember to take them regularly. You can take phenoxybenzamine either before or after a meal. Swallow the capsule with a drink of water.

• If you forget to take a dose at your usual time, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the following day, leave out the forgotten dose from the previous day and take the dose that is due as normal. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress.

• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are suitable for you to take alongside phenoxybenzamine.

Can phenoxybenzamine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains the most common ones associated with phenoxybenzamine. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the capsules, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

How to store phenoxybenzamine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines