Microzide (Hydrochlorothiazide) Drug Information

 

Hydrochlorothiazide is mostly used as single initial therapy, or in combination with other antihypertensive drugs in the management of hypertension. Hydrochlorothiazide is also used to treat fluid retention i.e. swelling) in people suffering with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, or kidney problems, or swelling because of steroids or estrogen. It is also known as “waterpill” because of its unique action. Hydrochlorothiazide is a user friendly drug and is well tolerated in patients.

How does Hydrochlorothiazide work?        
Hydrochlorothiazide increases the quantity of sodium traversing the distal tubule and the amount of water excreted by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium & chloride ions. Hydrochlorothiazide helps the body to get rid of extra salt and water and also decreases the excretion of calcium and uric acid. This increases the amount of urine you make and therefore it is commonly popular as “Water Pill”. Its unique mechanism reduces the incidents of swelling because of fluid retention and this action makes Hydrochlorothiazide to stand amongst the group drug approved by FDA. Hydrochlorothiazide is proved to be an excellent therapy for initiation of therapy for newly detected hypertensive patients & also for high risk profiled uncontrolled hypertensive patients.

Precautions before taking Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrochlorothiazide is meant a monotherapy for new hypertensive patients or as an adjuvant therapy to uncontrolled hypertensive patients. The doses and administration of Hydrochlorothiazide should be as advised by your doctor. If you are allergic to hydrochlorothiazide or not able to urinate, do not take this medicine. Ensure to inform your doctor if you have asthma or allergies, diabetes, gout, kidney disease, liver disease, or if you are allergic to sulfa drugs. Avoid consumption of alcohol as it may increase some of the side effects of hydrochlorothiazide.

Adverse Effects of Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrochlorothiazide has certain milder side effects such as:
·         Difficulty breathing
·         Hives
·         Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat

Some of the serious side effects of Hydrochlorothiazide are:
·         Clay-colored stools
·         Dark urine
·         Drowsy
·         Dry mouth
·         Fast or uneven heartbeat
·         Feeling weak
·         Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
·         Loss of appetite
·         Low fever
·         Muscle pain or weakness
·         Nausea
·         Numbness or tingly feeling; a red, blistering
·         Light-headed
·         Peeling skin rash
·         Restless
·         Stomach pain
·         Thirst
·         Vomiting

Consult your doctor immediately if you observe any of the above adverse effects. The seriousness of the symptoms may differ from person to person depending on their physiology and drug dosages. These adverse effects can be easily managed through adjustments of doses. Hydrochlorothiazide should not be used by nursing mothers.

• 25 Mg