General guidance
- These are potent drugs, especially when used in combination with a beta-blocker and a thiazide. Such use may result in a very rapid fall in blood pressure.
- Most agents are only available for the control of severe hypertension.
- Hydralazine is available in an oral preparation as an adjunct in moderate to severe hypertension, heart failure and hypertensive crisis.
- Hydralazine is associated with severe adverse effects.
Recommended drugs
Restricted use - Not recommended for primary care initiation
Minoxidil ££
Hydralazine ££
Drug Traffic Light Key:
Green – On Formulary
Amber – Restricted use, see local guidelines
Purple – Specialist use/initiation
Red – Non Formulary
Relative Costs Key (where indicated):
£££££ - high
£££ - moderate
£ - low