Hydrochlorothiazide

Hydrochlorothiazide is used as a diuretic and belongs to a group of drugs known as thiazide. Its function is to remove excess water from the body and reduce fluid retention (oedema). It acts by inhibiting the kidneys’ ability to retain water. This reduces the volume of the blood, decreasing blood return to the heart and thus cardiac output and, by other mechanisms, is believed to lower peripheral vascular resistance. in people with congestive heart failure, kidney disorders, cirrhosis of the liver and premenstrual syndrome. The drug is used to treat hypertension, (high blood pressure). Hydrochlorothiazide increases the loss of potassium in the urine, which may well cause a variety of symptoms and can also increase the onset of irregular heart rhythms especially in people who are taking digoxin, it is for this reason that potassium supplements are often given with hydrochlorothiazide.

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Quick Guide

• Thiazide Diuretic with danger of overdose – LOW.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – NO .(generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection.
• Alcohol avoidance – YES/No.
• Alcohol consumption should be kept low. likelihood of dehydration, and severe hangovers.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Muscle Cramp
Rare: Digestive Problems (Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and stomach cramps), Dizziness, Lethargy, Rash, Temporary Impotence
Others May Include: Low blood pressure (hypotension), Increased blood sugar (hyperglycemia), low blood sodium (hyponatremia), low blood potassium (hypokalemia), and low blood chloride (hypochloremia), Sensitivity to the sun, Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).

In studies, side effects are documented and compared to side effects that occur in a similar group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occurred, how often they occurred, and how they compared to the group not taking the medicine.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

It is possible that blood tests may be performed on a regular basis to check kidney function and the levels of potassium as well as other salts.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

You should avoid these activities until you know how hydrochlorothiazide will affect you. It is possible that the drug may cause dizziness and a drop in mental awareness. Drinking of alcohol should be kept to a minimum as hydrochlorothiazide increases the likelihood of dehydration, and severe hangovers.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

It is possible that this drug may cause jaundice in the newborn baby, and would not usually be prescribed. The drug passes into the breast milk, but at normal doses there should be no need for concern. However, you should discuss both these issues with your doctor/health care professional.

Patient pregnancy information class for hydrochlorothiazide is B (D if used to treat pregnancy-induced hypertension) : pregnancy category B…Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women OR Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in any trimester.

Tell Your Doctor Or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor about.»

Over 60′s & Children

As for the over sixties there is an increased likelihood of suffering adverse effects. A reduced dose would be necessary for infants and children having said that, it is more than possible this drug would not be prescribed.

Overdose

If you notice any unusual symptoms or a large overdose has been taken you should get in touch with your doctor.

Failing this go to your nearest accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you. This will help the hospital staff identify what has been taken and work towards given the right kind of help without delay. However, if an unintentional extra dose has been taken there should be no reason for concern.

Other Medication Reactions

There is a possible risk of severe adverse effects happening if you take hydrochlorothiazide as well as lithium hydrochlorothiazide, may well increase the lithium levels in the blood. Digoxin adverse effects may be increased if excessive potassium is lost. When taking hydrochlorothiazide a further increase of potassium will be lost if you are using Corticosteroids. hydrochlorothiazide dosage may need to be adjusted if you also take Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s) as some of theses drugs can reduce the diuretic effects of hydrochlorothiazide.

Missed A Dose

There would be no cause for concern, but you should take as soon as you remember. However if it is late in the day do not take the missed dose, or you may find your sleep will be interrupted as you experience a need to use the toilet to pass urine. Take as usual the next day.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

Do not stop taking this drug without first consulting your doctor. He may supervise a gradual reduction in your dosage.

Effect Of Medication

The effects of this drug can be felt within 1 to 2 hours. The medication has a lasting effect of 6 to 12 hours.

Storage and Safety

Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach of children. Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container. Return all un-used or old medicines to your pharmacist. Do not discard old or unwanted medication into your trash, sink or toilet.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.