Uses of Hydrochlorothiazide

Hydrochlorothiazide is used as an adjuvant therapy in treating edema (fluid accumulation) that is caused due to heart failure, liver inflammation (Ex. liver cirrhosis), kidney problems or due to intake of steroid medications. It can also be used in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) either alone or in combination with other medications.  

Therapeutic Category

Hydrochlorothiazide: Diuretics (Thiazide-type diuretic)

How Hydrochlorothiazide works

Hydrochlorothiazide acts by removing excess water from the body in the form of urine. This reduces swelling of body parts and prevents fluid accumulation. It also reduces the thickness of blood which reduces the strain on the heart and helps the heart to pump blood more smoothly with less pressure.

Common side effects of Hydrochlorothiazide

• weakness
• feeling dizzy while standing up
• nausea or vomiting
• stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion
• skin sensitivity towards light
• skin rash, itching
• muscle spasm
• spinning sensation, dizziness, headache
• tingling and numbness of body parts
• blurred vision, colour blindness
• impotence, low sex drive

When to consult your doctor

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience signs of allergic reactions (such as skin rash, swelling of the face, lips, mouth or throat which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• If you experience severe skin reactions (such as skin rash with itching and redness, blistering and peeling of skin, skin swelling and inflammation of mucous membrane)
• If you experience severe kidney problems
• If you experience glaucoma or vision problems

Health Tips for Hydrochlorothiazide

• This medicine can cause imbalances in electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium. Your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your electrolyte levels. Consider eating potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, and leafy greens unless advised otherwise by your doctor
• Follow a balanced and low-sodium diet to support your blood pressure management. Reduce your intake of processed foods, fast food and high-sodium snacks
• Engage in regular physical activity if your doctor approves. Exercise can help improve your overall cardiovascular health and complement your blood pressure management
• If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking can raise blood pressure and interfere with the effectiveness of this medicine
• Excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure and may interfere with the effects of this medicine
• Drink required amount of water throughout the day to stay well-hydrated. This medicine can cause increased urination, leading to fluid loss, so maintaining proper hydration is important
• Take hydrochlorothiazide exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the recommended dosage and dosing schedule to control your blood pressure and manage fluid retention effectively