GENERIC NAME: INDAPAMIDE - ORAL (in-DAP-uh-mide)

BRAND NAME(S): Lozol

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

USES: Indapamide is a "water pill" (diuretic) used to treat excess body water (edema) and high blood pressure. It works by decreasing the amount of water in the body by increasing urination.

HOW TO USE: Because this medication increases urination, it is best taken early in the day. This mediation may be taken with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. This medication may reduce the potassium levels in your blood. It is advisable to eat foods or drink liquids high in potassium such as citrus juices, bananas, tomatoes, melons, and raisins to help prevent low potassium. Salt substitutes contain potassium and may be beneficial. Sometimes a potassium supplement medication will be prescribed by your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause dizziness or lightheadedness especially during the first few days as your body adjusts to it. Rise slowly from a seated or lying position to minimize dizziness. Blurred vision, loss of appetite, stomach upset, headache and weakness may also occur. Inform your doctor if any of these effects persist or worsen. Inform you doctor if your develop any of the following symptoms (possible signs of low potassium levels): muscle cramps, pain, nausea, vomiting. In the unlikely event an allergic reaction to this drug occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before you take indapamide, tell your doctor your medical history, especially: heart rhythm problems, vitamin/ mineral (electrolyte) imbalances, diabetes, gout, kidney, thyroid or parathyroid problems, liver disease, urinary problems, SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), any allergies (especially drug allergies). Before using indapamide, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known if indapamide is excreted into breast milk. Though there have been no reports (to date) of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.