
GENERIC NAME: hydrochlorothiazide
BRAND NAMES: Hydrodiuril, and multiple combinations with other drugs.
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Hydrochlorothiazide is a
diuretic
(water pill). It works by blocking salt and fluid reabsorption
in the
kidneys, causing increased urine output (diuresis). It has also
been used
in treating mild high blood pressure, even though the mechanism
of blood
pressure lowering is not well understood.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 25mg, 50mg, 100mg.
STORAGE: Should be stored at room temperature in a
tight, light
resistant container.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat
excessive
fluid accumulation and swelling (edema) of the body caused by
heart
failure, cirrhosis, chronic kidney failure, corticosteroid
medications,
and nephrotic syndrome. It is sometimes used alone or in
conjunction with
other blood pressure pills to treat high blood pressure.
Hydrochlorothiazide can be used to treat calcium containing
kidney stones
by decreasing the amount of calcium excreted in the urine.
DOSING: May be taken with or without food.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Hydrochlorothiazide is eliminated
rapidly by
the kidneys and the dosage may have to be reduced in kidney
dysfunction.
It should be used with caution in patients with liver disease
because of
fluid and electrolyte problems.
Patients allergic to sulfa may also be allergic to
hydrochlorothiazide
because of a similarity in the chemical structure of the
medications.
Hydrochlorothiazide can aggravate kidney dysfunction, and is
used with
caution in patients with kidney disease. Even though
hydrochlorothiazide
is important in treating excess fluid accumulation in patients
with
cirrhosis, loss of fluid and electrolytes in these patients can
worsen
kidney function and even cause the patient to go into a coma.
Hydrochlorothiazide can cause lowering of blood potassium,
sodium, and
magnesium levels. Low potassium and magnesium levels can lead
to heart
rhythm abnormalities, especially in patients already taking
digoxin (Lanoxin). Please visit digoxin (Lanoxin) site for further
information.
Potassium supplementation is common during hydrochlorothiazide
treatment.
Blood uric acid levels can increase during hydrochlorothiazide
treatment, but precipitation of acute gout is rare.
Hydrochlorothiazide
reduces the kidney excretion of lithium and can lead to lithium
toxicity.
Blood sugar levels can be elevated, necessitating adjustment in
the doses
of oral diabetic medications and insulin. Periodic blood tests
are
performed to monitor kidney function and electrolytes during
treatment
with hydrochlorothiazide. Safe use in children has not been
established.
PREGNANCY: Safe use in pregnancy has not established.
SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects include weakness, low blood
pressure, rash, light sensitivity, impotence, nausea, abdominal pain,
electrolyte
disturbances, pancreatitis, jaundice, anaphylaxis, and severe
rashes.
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From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com  |
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Back to Medications IndexLast Editorial Review: 12/31/1997