Physiotens

How does it work?

Physiotens tablets contain the active ingredient moxonodine, which is a type of medicine known as a centrally acting antihypertensive. It is used to lower blood pressure. (NB. Moxonidine is also available without a brand name, ie as the generic medicine.)

Moxonidine is thought to work by stimulating receptors in the brain called imidazoline receptors. When moxonidine acts on these receptors it causes the blood vessels to relax and widen. Moxonidine is also thought to have an effect on other receptors called alpha-2 receptors. These receptors are found in the brain. By binding to these receptors moxonidine prevents the release of other chemicals in the brain that would normally act to increase blood pressure. By these mechanisms, moxonidine causes a lowering of blood pressure.

What is it used for?

High blood pressure

Warning!

You should not suddenly stop taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Use with caution in

Kidney disease

Not to be used in

Severely decreased kidney function

Severe liver disease

Severe coronary heart disease

A problem common in the elderly, related to poor control of the working of the heart (sick sinus syndrome)

Angina not well controlled by medical treatment

Severe heart failure

Irregular heart beats (arrhythmias)

Slow heart rate of less than 50 beats per minute (bradycardia)

Cramping pain in the calf muscles brought on by exercise, due to narrowing of the arteries in the calves

Narrowing of the blood vessels in the hands, causing numb and painful fingers (Raynaud's disease)

Depression

Epilepsy

Glaucoma

History of swelling of the lips, face or tongue (angioedema)

Parkinson's disease

Pregnancy

Breastfeeding

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Significant amounts of this medicine may pass into breast milk. It should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery.

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