Drug Name

Microzide (Hydrochlorothiazide)

Common use

Microzide is a moderate thiazide diuretic medication which decreases reabsorbtion of Na+ at the level of cortical limb of Henles' loop not influencing its segment located in medullary layer of the kidney. This is a reason of its weaker diuretic effect comparing to Lasix. Microzide is used to treat high blood pressure and accumulation of fluid (edema of different origin). Mechanism of its treating effect on lowering of high blood pressure is not well understood.

Dosage and direction

Microzide maybe taken with our without food and its dose depends on your condition, age and weight and should be prescribed by your doctor.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity, diabetes, chronic kidney failure, anuria, severe liver failure Addison disease, first trimester of pregnancy, breastfeeding, infancy (younger than 3 y.o.).

Drug interaction

Concomitant treatment with ethanol, barbiturates, opioid analgesics increases risk of hypotension. If Microzide is administered with insulin and medications which decrease levels of sugar in blood correction of such medication may be needed. Microzide reduces the elimination of lithium by the kidneys. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs may reduce the blood pressure effects of Microzide.

Missed dose

If you forgot to take a dose take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next intake. Resume your regular schedule. Do not compensate the missed dose by taking an extra one.

Overdose

If you experience nausea, weakness, dizziness, dry mouth, thirst, and muscle pain or weakness seek for immediate medical help.

Storage

Keep at room temperature, 15-30 C (59-86 F), in a light-resistant container away from moisture.

Precautions

Avoid drinking alcohol, becoming overheated or dehydrated during workouts, exercise and in hot weather. Warn your doctor if you suffer from liver disease, kidney disease, asthma or allergies, gout, diabetes, or if you are allergic to sulfa drugs.

Possible side effect

If you feel weakness, low blood pressure, light sensitivity, impotence, nausea, abdominal pain, electrolyte disturbances, pancreatitis, jaundice, anaphylaxis, and rashes contact your doctor and seek for immediate medical help. Patients allergic to Sulfa may also be allergic to Microzide.

Microzide can aggravate kidney dysfunction, lower blood potassium, sodium, and magnesium levels. Low potassium and magnesium levels can lead to abnormalities in heart rhythm, so treatment with Microzide require supplementation with potassium is common to prevent low potassium levels.