Prazosin

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Apr 17, 2024

Common Questions


Common Questions about Prazosin (Minipress)


Is prazosin an antidepressant?

Prazosin is not an antidepressant. It is an antihypertensive agent and is used to treat high blood pressure. However, prazosin is sometimes used to treat sleep problems associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, as it has been found to reduce nightmares, improve sleep quality, and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.



Does prazosin affect the kidneys?

Prazosin is not known to affect the kidneys. However, be sure to tell your doctor if you have a history of kidney disease before starting this medication.



What is the best time of day to take prazosin?

The best time to take the first dose of prazosin is before bedtime because it can cause adverse effects like drowsiness and dizziness. For maintenance treatment, your doctor may ask you to take prazosin 2-3 times a day in divided doses at equal intervals. You can take this medicine with or without food, but taking it at mealtimes may help you remember. Try to take it at the same time(s) every day.



How quickly does prazosin work?

The blood pressure-lowering effects of prazosin occur about two hours after you take a dose and last for around 4 hours. You need to take this medication 2-3 times a day to maintain blood pressure control. 



Does prazosin make you gain weight?

Weight gain is not a common side effect of prazosin. Talk to your doctor about healthy lifestyle measures such as dietary modifications and increased exercise for weight control.



What is the price of prazosin without insurance?

Without insurance, prazosin can be as high as $34.69, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $11.64 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of prazosin with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on prazosin—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for prazosin. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.