Hytrin is the brand name in the United States for a drug known generically as terazosin. While its primary function is to help lower a person's blood pressure to get hypertension under control, it also may be prescribed for a condition known as BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia. This condition, also known as an enlarged prostate gland, can cause urination problems because the prostate in men encircles the urethra. This tube leads from the bladder to the penis to release urine. An enlarged prostate can constrict the urethra. Hytrin, MayoClinic.com reports, can help lessen the constriction to allow easier flow of urine.
Sexual Problems
Hytrin reduces blood pressure as well as relaxing the muscles of the prostate gland. This can cause men to experience a reduction in the ability to sustain an erection and perform sexually. MedlinePlus indicates this side effect classifies as non-serious. Doctors expect it to end as the man's body becomes used to the medication. A man should consult his doctor if the problem is severe or does not diminish.
Dizziness and Lightheadedness
The only commonly experienced serious side effect associated with Hytrin is a sensation of dizziness, MayoClinic.com reports. This can occur because of the drug's reduction of blood pressure, which may decrease blood flow to the brain. Dizziness can throw off the person's normal sense of balance and orientation, causing unsteadiness and falls. Injuries may result. MayoClinic.com recommends an immediate physician consultation for the person who experiences dizziness while taking Hytrin. Lightheadedness or a sensation of imminent fainting also may occur when Hytrin treatment begins, Drugs.com reports. Lightheadedness is categorized as a non-serious side effect of the medication that should stop after the body adjusts to Hytrin.
Blurry Vision
Taking Hytrin can induce a decrease in the eyes' focusing ability. A man may find it more difficult to sharply focus on far or near objects, MedlinePlus indicates. This may occur because of the reduction in blood pressure, because the eyes need a specific fluid pressure to focus accurately. While the person's body adjusts to Hytrin, the fluid levels in his body may decrease in various places, including his eyes. MedlinePlus reports this as a non-serious side effect that should end without a physician's aid.
Weakness
With a reduction in blood pressure, the man taking Hytrin may feel a general weakness in his body, MedlinePlus reports. Because his body is used to a certain level of blood pressure, the sudden change induced by the drug can make him feel tired and weak. Weakness generally will go away by itself.
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