Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic. This drug works by decreasing the amount of fluid in your body through increasing the salt and water that is passed in the urine. This medication is used to decrease edema and to lower blood pressure.
Dosage Information for Hydrochlorothiazide
- Inform your physician of any medications you take prior to starting a treatment of Hydrochlorothiazide.
- Take as directed by your physician.
- You should drink a full glass of water when you take this medication.
- Hydrochlorothiazide should be taken in the morning or early in the afternoon. This will decrease your need to urinate during the night.
- You should continue taking this medication, even if you start to feel better. If you stop taking this medication abruptly, your condition may worsen.
- Your blood pressure will be tested regularly on this medication. You may also have other medical evaluations done while being treated with Hydrochlorothiazide. You should keep all of your doctor appointments when you are taking Hydrochlorothiazide.
- Keep this medication away from heat. Store at room temperature.
Special Information About Hydrochlorothiazide
- If you plan on becoming pregnant, you should talk to your physician to see if you should discontinue Hydrochlorothiazide.
- Hydrochlorothiazide passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, you should consult with your physician prior to taking this medication.
- This medication may cause you to become dizzy. You should not drive or do any hazardous activities until you see how the medication affects you.
- Alcohol may enhance drowsiness and dizziness.
- You should avoid salt when taking Hydrochlorothiazide. Salt can cause your body to retain water.
- This medication may make you sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen and protective clothing if you cannot avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight.
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming overheated.
- You should tell you physician if you have any of the following conditions prior to taking this medication: kidney disease, problems with your pancreas, lupus, gout, diabetes, high cholesterol and liver disease.
Contact your physician if you experience any side effects.
Disclaimer: Cliff Schaffer does not personally endorse or support any of the comments made within the writings of this article. |
