Hydrochlorothiazide
Hypertension, Edema ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Thiazide Diuretic
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Hydrochlorothiazide
Summary
Hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention, also known as edema, caused by heart problems, liver disease, kidney issues, or certain medications like steroids or estrogen.
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, or water pill, that helps your body get rid of extra water and salt through your urine. This reduces the amount of fluid in your body, lowering your blood pressure and reducing swelling.
Hydrochlorothiazide is taken orally, usually once a day. The dosage varies, but for adults with high blood pressure, it typically starts at 25 milligrams daily, potentially increasing up to 50 milligrams.
Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It may also cause anorexia or reduced appetite, and less commonly, mood changes like restlessness.
Hydrochlorothiazide should not be used by people with severe kidney or liver problems, or allergies to similar medicines. It's not safe for regular use during pregnancy unless specifically instructed by a doctor. It can also interact badly with other drugs, so it's important to tell your doctor about all the medicines you're taking.
Indications and Purpose
How does Hydrochlorothiazide work?
Hydrochlorothiazide works by affecting the distal renal tubular mechanism of electrolyte reabsorption. It increases the excretion of sodium and chloride, leading to increased urine production. This helps reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure, making it effective in treating hypertension and edema.
Is Hydrochlorothiazide effective?
Hydrochlorothiazide is a well-established diuretic and antihypertensive medication. It works by increasing the excretion of sodium and chloride, which helps reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure. Clinical studies have shown its effectiveness in managing hypertension and edema associated with various medical conditions.
What is Hydrochlorothiazide?
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic used to treat high blood pressure and edema associated with heart, kidney, and liver diseases. It works by helping the kidneys remove excess water and salt from the body, reducing fluid retention and lowering blood pressure. This helps prevent complications like heart disease and stroke.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Hydrochlorothiazide?
Hydrochlorothiazide is often used as a long-term treatment for managing high blood pressure and edema. It is important to continue taking it even if you feel well, as it controls but does not cure these conditions. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of use.
How do I dispose of Hydrochlorothiazide?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Hydrochlorothiazide?
Hydrochlorothiazide can be taken with or without food, usually once or twice a day. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. If prescribed a low-salt or low-sodium diet, or advised to consume more potassium-rich foods, follow these dietary guidelines to help manage your condition effectively.
How long does it take for Hydrochlorothiazide to start working?
Hydrochlorothiazide begins to work within 2 hours of oral administration, with peak effects occurring around 4 hours. Its diuretic action lasts about 6 to 12 hours, helping to reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure.
How should I store Hydrochlorothiazide?
Store Hydrochlorothiazide in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not allow the liquid or capsules to freeze.
What is the usual dose of Hydrochlorothiazide?
For adults, the usual dose for edema is 25 to 100 mg daily, either as a single dose or divided doses. For hypertension, the initial dose is typically 25 mg daily, which may be increased to 50 mg daily. For children, the dose is 0.5 to 1 mg per pound (1 to 2 mg/kg) per day, not exceeding 37.5 mg per day for infants up to 2 years or 100 mg per day for children 2 to 12 years.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Hydrochlorothiazide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Hydrochlorothiazide is excreted in breast milk and may cause serious adverse reactions in nursing infants. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the medication, considering the drug's importance to the mother. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Can Hydrochlorothiazide be taken safely while pregnant?
Hydrochlorothiazide should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, as routine use is inappropriate and may pose risks to the mother and fetus. It does not prevent toxemia of pregnancy and should only be used for edema due to pathological causes. There is a risk of fetal or neonatal jaundice and thrombocytopenia.
Can I take Hydrochlorothiazide with other prescription drugs?
Hydrochlorothiazide can interact with several medications, including cholestyramine, colestipol, NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and lithium. These interactions can affect the absorption and effectiveness of Hydrochlorothiazide or increase the risk of side effects. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking.
Does Hydrochlorothiazide have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medicine. Hydrochlorothiazide can cause dizziness, dehydration, low blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances, which are not very common. Rare but serious effects include severe allergic reactions, eye pain, or vision changes, which need immediate medical attention. It's important to report any new or worsening symptoms to a healthcare provider and not stop the medicine without their guidance.
Does Hydrochlorothiazide have any safety warnings?
Hydrochlorothiazide comes with safety warnings. It can cause low blood pressure, especially when standing up, leading to dizziness or fainting. It may also cause electrolyte imbalances, affecting heart and muscle function. Watch for symptoms like muscle cramps, weakness, or irregular heartbeat. Dehydration is another risk, so stay hydrated. If you experience severe symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider can help manage these risks.
Is Hydrochlorothiazide addictive?
Hydrochlorothiazide is not addictive and has no known potential for dependence. There are no behaviors or warning signs of addiction associated with this medicine. It's important to take it as prescribed by your doctor and not to stop it suddenly without medical advice, but this is to ensure effective treatment rather than to prevent addiction.
Is Hydrochlorothiazide safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may experience a greater reduction in blood pressure and an increase in side effects. It is recommended to start treatment with the lowest available dose, such as 12.5 mg, and increase gradually if needed. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is advised to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Hydrochlorothiazide?
Drinking alcohol can increase the side effects of Hydrochlorothiazide, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting, especially when getting up from a lying position. It's advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication and discuss any alcohol use with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Hydrochlorothiazide?
Hydrochlorothiazide may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, which could affect your ability to exercise safely. If you experience these symptoms, it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities until you know how the medication affects you. Always consult your doctor before starting or continuing an exercise regimen while on this medication.
Is it safe to stop Hydrochlorothiazide?
Hydrochlorothiazide is often used for long-term management of chronic conditions like hypertension. Stopping it suddenly can lead to a rebound increase in blood pressure, which may be dangerous. There are no known withdrawal symptoms, but the risk of complications from untreated high blood pressure is significant. It's crucial to consult with a doctor before stopping this medicine to ensure a safe and effective transition to another treatment if necessary.
What are the most common side effects of Hydrochlorothiazide?
A side effect is an unwanted effect of a medicine. Common side effects of Hydrochlorothiazide include dizziness, headache, dehydration, low blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances. These effects are not very common and may be temporary. It's important to note that new symptoms can occur when starting any medicine and may not be related to the medicine itself. Always talk to a healthcare provider before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Hydrochlorothiazide?
Hydrochlorothiazide should not be used in patients with anuria or hypersensitivity to sulfonamide-derived drugs. Use with caution in patients with severe renal or hepatic disease, as it may precipitate azotemia or hepatic coma. It can cause acute angle-closure glaucoma and should be discontinued if symptoms occur. Regular monitoring of electrolytes is recommended.
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