Drug Name: Hydrodiuril
Brand Names: Hydrodiuril
Generic Name: Hydrochlorothiazide
Uses: This drug is used as an adjunctive therapy in edema that is associated with congestive heart failure, hepatic cirrhosis and corticosteroid and estrogen therapy. It is also used in the treatment of severe forms of hypertension. It may either work as a sole therapeutic agent or work as an enhancer for other antihypertensive agents.
How to use: The smallest dosage necessary should be taken for the treatment. And dosage should be according to the patient response. For adults, the treatment for edema is 25 to 100 mg daily either in single or divided doses. In the treatment of hypertension, there is an initial dose of 25mg that may be increased to 50mg daily. This can also be either in single or divided dosage. For children, the usual pediatric dosage is 0.5 to 1mg per day in single or divided dosage. Children under two years of age should not exceed 37.5 mg per day and children between two and 12 years of age should not exceed a 100mg per day dosage.
Side Effects: The side effects of taking hydrochlorothiazide range from the cardiovascular, digestive to the metabolic and the musculoskeletal areas of the body. The body as a whole may experience weakness. Hypotension, pancreatitis, jaundice, diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, constipation, nausea, anorexia, hyperglycemia and muscle spasm are some of the side effects experienced. Hypersensitivity may also be exhibited. Other side effects are dizziness, headache, restlessness, renal failure, exfoliative dermatitis and transient blurred vision.
Precautions: Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or may become pregnant at the time of treatment. Taking the drug can cause birth defects or other problems on the infant if hydrochlorothiazide is taking during pregnancy. Persons with diabetes should also consult with their doctor first before undergoing treatment. Taking the drug may cause an increase in your blood sugar levels.
Drug Interaction: Consult your doctor first about any other medication that you may be taking before starting on the treatment. Potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium may alter your blood potassium levels. Nonprescription medicines for appetite control, asthma, colds, cough, hay fever and sinus problems may also increase your blood pressure.
Overdose: In case of overdose, medical attention should be called.
Notes: Hydrochlorothiazide works best if there is a constant amount of it in the blood. This is why it is important not to miss any dosage and to take it at the same time each day.
Missed Dose: If you have missed a dosage, take it as soon as you have remembered. If the next dosage is almost near though, just skip the missed dose. Do not double up your dosage.
Important Note: It is very important to take the medicine as directed by your doctor and do to not change our dosage unless advised to do so.
Storage: Hydrochlorothiazide should be placed inside a tight, light resistant container and stored at room temperature. The medicine should not be stored in the bathroom, kitchen sink or in other damp places to avoid break down due to moisture. It should also not be kept inside the refrigerator.
Resources for Hydrodiuril prescription medication:
Patient information from Medicinenet for Hydrodiuril
(PDF) file from Merck Pharmaceuticals for HydroDIURIL prescription drug.
