Dihydralazine Sulfate
Dihydralazine Sulfate is a direct-acting vasodilator medication that was historically used to treat hypertension. It works by relaxing smooth muscle in blood vessel walls, primarily arterioles, which leads to decreased peripheral vascular resistance and lowered blood pressure. This medication has largely fallen out of common clinical use due to the availability of safer alternatives with fewer side effects.
A vasodilator antihypertensive agent that relaxes blood vessels to lower blood pressure, now largely replaced by safer alternatives.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 235959
- Generic
- Dihydralazine Sulfate
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Primarily used for management of hypertension, particularly moderate to severe cases. May have been used in combination therapy when other antihypertensives were insufficient.
Acts as a direct vasodilator on arteriolar smooth muscle, causing relaxation of blood vessel walls. This reduces peripheral vascular resistance and decreases cardiac afterload, leading to lowered blood pressure.
Use has declined significantly due to side effect profile including fluid retention, tachycardia, and potential for drug-induced lupus-like syndrome. Requires careful monitoring and is generally reserved for cases where other treatments have failed. Not typically used in modern clinical practice.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy