Hydrochlorothiazide

Dosage Forms Available

• Hydrochlorothiazide can be taken orally (tablets and capsules).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adults and children over 12 years of age.

Contraindications

• Hydrochlorothiazide is contraindicated in patients with known allergies to thiazides or other sulfonamide-derived medicines.

• It is also contraindicated in patients with anuria (lack of urine) and those with severe kidney disease.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine may interact with digitalis glycosides (such as digoxin), antipsychotics (lithium), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (such as ibuprofen and naproxen), and antidiabetic agents (such as insulin and glimepiride).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Hydrochlorothiazide can cause symptoms such as nausea, weakness, dizziness, dry mouth, thirst, and muscle pain or cramps. If you suspect an overdose, you should seek medical attention immediately.

• If a dose of this medicine is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up the dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Try to get up slowly from a sitting or lying position to manage dizziness or lightheadedness.

• Try to take your dose early in the day to avoid disrupting your sleep pattern.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Hydrochlorothiazide may cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some people. Therefore, caution should be exercised when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Hydrochlorothiazide should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor. It is known to pass into breast milk, so a doctor should be consulted before breastfeeding while taking this medication.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with liver disease, kidney disease, or gout should use Hydrochlorothiazide with caution. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function tests may be necessary for these patients.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Opt for a low-sodium diet to manage high blood pressure.

• Avoid alcohol, high-sugar foods, and grapefruit juice.