Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)

Description

Hydrochlorothiazide, also known as microzide, is a medication used to treat high blood pressure. It is a water pill that gets rids of edema (excess fluid in the body) through urine. This medication is also used to treat other diseases such as kidney and liver problems.

 

How it works

 

People who have illnesses such as kidney disease, liver disease and heart failure have a higher salt and water level in their body. This makes them more susceptible to illnesses such as strokes and heart attacks. This medication reduces the level of edema in the body and thereby reduces the risk of such illnesses.

 

Its uses

 

Apart from being highly effective in treating hypertension, the medication is also used to treat a number of other diseases. These include:

 

 Kidney disorders
 Congestive heart failure
 Cirrhosis of the liver
 Shortness of breath
 Swelling of feet

 

 

 

Dosage

 

This medication must be taken once a day on a daily basis – unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise. It is best to take the medication during the day time – specifically in the morning. The medication is mostly consumed in drug form and it can be taken with or without food. Do not change the dosage or your schedule without consulting your physician. Increasing the dosage will not enhance the effectiveness of the drug, but will only make your condition worse.

 

Side effects

 

Listed below are some side effects that you may or may not experience when consuming this medication over the long term.

 

 Blisters
 Muscle weakness
 Vision problems
 Increased thirst
 Drowsiness
 Nausea
 Loss of appetite
 Numbness

 

If you do experience any of these effects, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

 

Precautions

 

 Following the guidelines mentioned below will enable you to reduce the risk of these side effects.

 

 If you have kidney diseases, asthma and diabetes, make sure to inform your healthcare provide beforehand.

 

 Consuming this medication with these illnesses can deteriorate the condition.

 

 Avoid consuming alcohol since it can increase the risk of side effects.

 

 Consume a lot of liquids, including plenty of water, to keep yourself hydrated.

 

 This medication can affect the results of a thyroid test. So, make sure to inform your physician that you are taking this drug.

 

 Take blood and urine tests regularly.

 

 Avoid this medication during periods of pregnancy and breastfeeding

 

 Check whether you are allergic to any ingredients used to create the medication.

 

 If you are using the medication for high blood pressure, do not stop the consumption abruptly – even if you feel fine.

 

Self-care

 

Be careful about the other medications that you are using. Some of them can negatively react to hydrochlorothiazide or even reduce its effectiveness. For example, drugs such as colestipol can reduce the effectiveness of this medication and thereby prolong the treatment process. The best way to avoid such a situation is to inform your healthcare provider about your medical history.

 

If you miss your dose, do not double it the next time. Skip it and continue according to your usual schedule. Your physician might change your dosage once in a while to increase its effectiveness. Do not attempt to do the same on your own since it can affect your health adversely.