What is the brand name for Hydralazine?
The brand name for Hydralazine is Apresoline.
PTCE Top 200 · #109
Hydralazine
Apresoline
Hydralazine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Apresoline. It is a direct vasodilator used to treat hypertension, HF. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Hydralazine ranks #109 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Hydralazine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Apresoline |
| Drug class | Direct vasodilator |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | hypertension, HF |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Hydralazine used for?
Vasodilator used to treat hypertension; also used (with isosorbide dinitrate) for heart failure in selected patients.
What drug class is Hydralazine?
Hydralazine is a Direct vasodilator in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Hydralazine
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightTachycardia/palpitations
- arrow_rightFlushing
- arrow_rightFluid retention/edema
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightNausea
Major interactions
- arrow_rightAdditive hypotension with other antihypertensives and nitrates
- arrow_rightMay cause reflex tachycardia—often used with beta‑blocker/diuretic in practice
- arrow_rightRare drug‑induced lupus risk—monitor with long‑term/high dose
Is Hydralazine a controlled substance?
No. Hydralazine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Hydralazine (PTCE mnemonic)
APRE-soline RElieves vessel tension — hydral-AZINE = direct arteriolar 'HYDRant'. Headache, reflex tachycardia, fluid retention; lupus-like syndrome with chronic use.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
The classic LASA pair: hydrALAZINE (blood pressure) vs hydrOXYzine (itching/anxiety) — Tall Man lettering exists because of this exact mix-up.
Hydralazine FAQ
What is Hydralazine used for?
Hydralazine is used to treat hypertension, HF. Vasodilator used to treat hypertension; also used (with isosorbide dinitrate) for heart failure in selected patients.
What drug class is Hydralazine?
Hydralazine is a Direct vasodilator (Cardiovascular group).
Is Hydralazine a controlled substance?
No. Hydralazine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Hydralazine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).