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Phenoxybenzamine

This medicine is also supplied under the trade name Dibenylineâ and is available as:
capsules containing phenoxybenzamine 10 mg.

Phenoxybenzamine is used usually in the short term management of hypertension in phaeochromocytoma prior to surgical removal of this tumour or long term in those with malignancy of phaeochromocytoma or paragangliomata secreting catecholamine hormones. Its use is usually restricted to specialists.

The usual starting dose is 10 mg daily, then increased until control of hypertensive episodes are achieved or the fall in blood pressure with standing precludes further increase in dosage.

What side effects can be expected?

• Usually mild and transient. Feeling of faint on standing up due to postural fall in blood pressure, rapid heart beat, nasal congestion, inhibition of ejaculation, lassitude and gastro-intestinal upset.
• Fall in blood pressure can be profound and has to be used with caution in those with heart failure, heart disease, previous stroke, and renal damage.
• Can cause cancers in rats and therefore used only where other agents not feasible

Phenoxybenzamine capsules should be stored at room temperature. Keep in the original container in which they have been dispensed and protect from direct sunlight.

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Ó NHS Tayside; 2006; version 1.0

Disclaimer; no liability whatsoever is accepted for information given and all such information, especially with regard to drug usage (UK version provided), must be checked with a person’s health provider.