Prazosin is an alpha-blocker that causes a decrease in total peripheral resistance and is used to treat hypertension. Prazosin is marketed by Pfizer and was initially approved by the FDA in 1988.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 3 references
Alpha-adrenergic receptors are essential for the regulation of blood pressure in humans. Two types of alpha receptors, alpha 1 and alpha 2, both play a role in regulating blood pressure. Alpha-1 receptors are postsynaptic (located after the nerve junction, or space between a nerve fiber and target tissue). In this case, the target tissue is the vascular smooth muscle. These receptors, when activated, increase blood pressure.
Prazosin inhibits the postsynaptic alpha-1 adrenoceptors. This inhibition blocks the vasoconstricting (narrowing) effect of catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine) on the vessels, leading to peripheral blood vessel dilation. Through blood vessel constriction by adrenergic receptor activation, epinephrine and norepinephrine normally act to increase blood pressure.
- Primary indication
- This drug is indicated for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure).Curator reviewed · 7 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- C19H21N5O4 · 383.4011 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 2011 · United States, 1989
- Code names
- CP-122991
- Brand names
Resolves to
IENZQIKPVFGBNW-UHFFFAOYSA-NSMILESCOC1=C(OC)C=C2C(N)=NC(=NC2=C1)N1CCN(CC1)C(=O)C1=CC=CO1What you can answer from here — as of September 23, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Prazosin, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
Create a free account or log in to explore the full data card.
Create Account