Generic name: hydrochlorothiazide [ HYE-dro-KLOR-o-THY-a-zide ]
Brand names: HydroDIURIL, Esidrix, Microzide
Dosage forms: oral capsule (12.5 mg); oral tablet (12.5 mg; 25 mg; 50 mg)
Drug class:Thiazide diuretics
What is HCTZ?
HCTZ is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that helps prevent your body from absorbing too much salt, which can cause fluid retention.
HCTZ is used to treat fluid retention (edema) in people with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, or kidney disorders, or edema caused by taking steroids or estrogen.
HCTZ is also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
Warnings
You should not use HCTZ if you are allergic to hydrochlorothiazide or if you are unable to urinate.
Before using HCTZ, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, glaucoma, asthma or allergies, gout, diabetes, or if you are allergic to sulfa drugs or penicillin.
Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of HCTZ.
Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink. In some cases, drinking too much liquid can be as unsafe as not drinking enough.
There are many other drugs that can interact with HCTZ. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to any healthcare provider who treats you.
If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using HCTZ even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use HCTZ if you are allergic to hydroch...
