Hydrochlorothiazide

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Hexazide, Ridaq

Popular combinations:

Accuretic, Co-Tareg, Cozaar Comp, Pharmapress Co and many others

Drug group:

Thiazide diuretic

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Hydrochlorothiazide is a safe but relatively weak diuretic drug used to treat:

• Oedema (fluid retention) - in congestive heart failure, kidney disorders, cirrhosis of the liver and premenstrual syndrome
• High blood pressure - usually in combination with other antihypertensives

How does it work?

• Hydrochlorothiazide causes the kidneys to excrete more water from the body
• In doing this it also increases the amount of potassium lost in the urine

How should it be used?

• Take the drug early in the day to avoid needing to get up at night
• You may need to reduce your salt intake, discuss with your doctor
• It is often prescribed with potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Hypertension: 25–50mg once daily
• Oedema: 25–100mg once daily, or every 2 days

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 2 hours
                                  

How long will the effects last?

6–12 hours
                               

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor 
                                

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Long term use may cause excessive loss of potassium and imbalances of other electrolytes. Regular blood tests may be done to check kidney function and potassium levels.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects from hydrochlorothaizide are rare and mostly caused by excessive loss of potassium in the urine. Low potassium levels can increase the likelihood of irregular heart rhythms.

The following have been reported:

• Less common: dizziness, muscle cramps, lethargy, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, temporary erectile dysfunction, gout, loss of diabetes control
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney problems, gout, diabetes
• Other medicines: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anti-arrhythmic and digitalis drugs, corticosteroids, lithium
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety in pregnancy not established, safe with breastfeeding
• Children: Not usually prescribed
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug may reduce mental alertness and cause dizziness
• Alcohol: Keep consumption low, increased likelihood of dehydration and hangovers