Uses

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thaizide diuretic. It works within the kidneys by increasing the amount of water that your body releases, which can lead to decreases in blood pressure and body fluid volume. It is commonly used to treat high blood pressure, edema and heart failure.

How to Use

Take this medication by mouth with water.

Take it exactly as directed.

You will have to urinate more frequently when taking this medication.

Do not stop taking this medication unless directed by a doctor.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is already almost time for your next dose, take only that next dose. Do not double up on any dose.

Important Information

Contact your doctor if you get an attack of nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and/or excessive sweating. Excessive body fluid loss while taking this medication can have adverse effects.

Do not operate heavy machinery, drive a car, or engage in other activity that requires fine motor skills until you are sure of how this medication affects you.

Stand and sit slowly when first starting this medication to avoid dizziness.

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

Check your blood pressure and meet with your doctor regularly while on this medication.

Be sure that your prescribing doctor is aware if you have any of the the following conditions before taking this medication

Gout, diabetes, immune system diseases, kidney conditions including kidney stones, liver disease, pacreatitis, difficulty passing urine or decreased urine output, allergic reaction history, pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to become pregnant.

Side effects that should be immediately reported to your healthcare provider

Allergic reactions(hives, itching, rashes, swelling of the face or mouth), trouble breathing, vision changes, chest pain, eye pain, heartbeat changes, falls or lightheadedness, gout attacks, muscle pain or spasms, difficulty passing urine, painful urination, tingling or pain in the hands or feet, any red, loosening or peeling skin, excessive fatigue.

Other Side Effects

Libido changes, dry mouth, headache, upset stomach.

Dose

Hypertension

25 mg by mouth once daily for a starting dose. The dose can then be increased to up to 50 mg by mouth daily in 1-2 divided doses.

Sources

1. The sixth report of the Joint National Committee on detection, evaluation, and treatment of high blood pressure. National Institute of Health publication No 99-4080. 1997;1-64.