GENERIC NAME: HYDRALAZINE WITH HCTZ - ORAL (hi-DRAL-uh-zeen WITH HCTZ)

BRAND NAME(S): Apresazide

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Hydralazine helps to widen arteries and veins so blood flows better. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a "water pill" (diuretic) that rids the body of excess fluid. This combination medication is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time each day. Because this medication may increase urination especially during the first few days, try to avoid taking a dose just before bedtime. This may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, lightheadedness, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue or increased urination may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Constipation, hoarseness, decreased sexual function, nasal congestion, tremors, depression and increased sensitivity to the sun may also occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages and avoid overheating which will aggravate these effects. Though unlikely to occur, notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, a rapid pulse, difficulty breathing, skin rash, tingling of the hands or feet, muscle aches, fever, unusual tiredness, easy bruising or bleeding, swelling of the feet or ankles (edema), jaundice, joint pain, change in the amount of urine. This medication may cause blood disorders. Periodic laboratory tests will be done while taking this medication to monitor for these effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

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