Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Hydrochlorothiazide is an effective medication for treating high blood pressure (hypertension) either alone or in combination with other medications.
Hypertension places excessive strain on the heart and blood vessels, which can lead to serious health problems if left uncontrolled for an extended period of time. These include cardiovascular issues such as heart attacks, heart failure, stroke, and kidney failure.
Hydrochlorothiazide works by reducing the amount of fluid in the body through increased urine flow, and can also be used to manage fluid retention caused by conditions like heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease, and steroid or hormone treatment. This medication is classified as a thiazide diuretic and its use may also be prescribed for other medical conditions based on your doctor’s discretion.
Uses and Dosage
Hydrochlorothiazide should be ingested orally in accordance with the directions provided by your physician, usually once daily in the morning either with or without food. Ttake this medication at least 4 hours prior to bedtime to minimize the need for nighttime urination. The dose of this medication is determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Consume this medication consistently to experience its full benefits. To aid in maintaining a consistent regimen, take it at the same time each day. Even if you feel well, continue taking hydrochlorothiazide. The majority of individuals with high blood pressure do not exhibit any symptoms.
If you are taking bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol to lower cholesterol levels, take hydrochlorothiazide at least 4 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after consuming these drugs.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- frequent urination
- diarrhea
- loss of appetite
- headache
- hair loss
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- dry mouth; thirst; nausea; vomiting; weakness, tiredness; drowsiness; restlessness; confusion; muscle weakness, pain, or cramps; fast heartbeat and other signs of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
- blisters or peeling skin
- hives
- rash
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- fever, sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- ongoing pain that begins in the stomach area, but may spread to the back
- joint pain or swelling
- changes in vision, eye pain, or swelling or redness in or around the eye
Caution
Before using hydrochlorothiazide, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies, including allergies to inactive ingredients in some brands. Provide your medical history, particularly if you have a history of diabetes, gout, kidney disease, liver disease, lupus, or skin cancer.
Please note that hydrochlorothiazide may cause dizziness, and the use of alcohol or marijuana can worsen this effect. To ensure your safety, avoid activities that require alertness until you are confident that you can safely participate.
If you have diabetes, hydrochlorothiazide may affect your blood sugar levels, and it may be necessary for your doctor to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
Hydrochlorothiazide may also lower potassium levels, and your doctor may suggest dietary changes or a potassium supplement.
Sensitivity to sunlight may increase with the use of hydrochlorothiazide and increase your risk of skin cancer, especially with long-term use. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and to wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when outside.
Form and Strength
Hydrochlorothiazide is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
hydrochlorothiazide tablet:
- 12.5mg
- 25mg
- 50mg
FAQ
Can I drink coffee while taking hydrochlorothiazide?
It is best to avoid drinking coffee, especially excessive amounts of caffeine, while on hydrochlorothiazide. Caffeine can raise blood pressure. Also, taking caffeine with water pills like hydrochlorothiazide can lead to serum potassium depletion (too low serum potassium levels).
How does hydrochlorothiazide make you feel?
Hydrochlorothiazide can make you feel tired, weak, or fatigued. This could be due to your blood pressure getting too low or from an imbalance in your electrolytes. When hydrochlorothiazide removes extra fluid from your body, it also removes some of your electrolytes –– like sodium, potassium, and magnesium.
Resources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/hydrochlorothiazide-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20071841
- https://www.goodrx.com/hydrochlorothiazide/common-side-effects
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430766/
- https://www.drugs.com/hydrochlorothiazide.html#side-effects
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682571.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5310/hydrochlorothiazide-oral/details
