Drug Title

Hydrochlorothiazide

Drug Uses

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that is used to treat hypertension and fluid buildup in the body caused by certain conditions (eg, heart failure, liver cirrhosis, kidney problems) or medicines (eg, corticosteroids, estrogen).

Mode of Application

Hydrochlorothiazide can be taken by mouth with or without food. It has been noted that the drug has a tendency to increase the frequency of urination especially when you first start treatment with it. So, in order to avoid this disturbing your sleep, take your last dose before 6 pm.

The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Drug Class & Mechanism of Action

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that helps to remove the fluid build up in the body.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Hydrochlorothiazide then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Precautions

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances.

Hydrochlorothiazide may cause drowsiness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.

The dizziness and lightheadedness of the drug may get aggravated due to factors like alcohol, hot weather, exercise and fever. To ensure that this does not happen, sit up and stand slowly, especially in the morning.

If you are prescribed a potassium supplement, then take it exactly as prescribed.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Hydrochlorothiazide and contact your doctor immediately.

Certain drugs can interact with Hydrochlorothiazide and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Hydrochlorothiazide is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Should not be used in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.

Ensure that you inform your doctor and your dentist about Hydrochlorothiazide before receiving any form of medical treatment or dental treatment or emergency surgery.

Hydrochlorothiazide may make you more sensitive to the sun so please avoid the sun, sunlamps or a tanning booth until you know how your body reacts to the drug. If you cannot avoid going out in the sun for a long while, then wear protective clothing or use a proper sunscreen.

Avoid high temperatures as it may lead to low blood sodium levels.

It may also increase your blood sugar level leading to symptoms like confusion, drowsiness, or thirst. Monitor your blood sugar levels constantly while using the drug.

Periodic lab tests including kidney function, blood pressure, and electrolyte levels, may be recommended to monitor your health while taking Hydrochlorothiazide. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.

It has been noted that elder patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.

Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are Constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, lightheadedness (especially when sitting up or standing), loss of appetite, nausea, temporary blurred vision. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), confusion, dark urine, decreased urination, fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat, fever, chills, or persistent sore throat, increased thirst, joint pain, swelling, warmth, or redness (especially of the big toe joint), mental or mood changes, muscle pain or cramps, numbness or tingling, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin, seizures, severe or persistent dizziness, severe or persistent nausea or stomach pain, shortness of breath, unusual bruising or bleeding, unusual drowsiness, restlessness, tiredness, or weakness, unusually dry mouth, vomiting, yellowing of the eyes or skin.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.