COMMON BRAND NAME(S)
Aquatensen, Diuril, Enduron, Esidrix, Hygroton, Naturetin, Oretic, Renese, Zaroxolyn

USES
This medication is a "water pill" (diuretic) that decreases the amount of water in the body by increasing urination. It is used to decrease body fluid and swelling of the hands or feet (edema), and for high blood pressure.

HOW TO USE
Because this drug increases urination, it is best taken early in the day. This drug may be taken by mouth with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

SIDE EFFECTS
This drug may cause dizziness and lightheadedness especially during the first few days as your body adjusts to it. Rise slowly from a seated or lying position to minimize the dizziness or lightheadedness. Blurred vision, loss of appetite, itching, stomach upset, headache and weakness may also occur during initial therapy as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Inform your doctor promptly if you develop: muscle cramps, weakness, pain, nausea, vomiting. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially about: gout, diabetes, liver problems, urinary problems, any allergies (especially to sulfa medications). Thiazide diuretics may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. If you become sun sensitive, use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Thiazide diuretics appear in breast milk. Though there have been (to date) no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS
This drug is not recommended for use with: dofetilide. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Inform your doctor about all the medicines you may use (both
prescription and nonprescription), especially if you take: lithium, digoxin, oral drugs used for diabetes, aspirin, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), fluconazole. If you take colestipol or cholestyramine for high cholesterol, take the diuretic 1 hour before or 4 hours after because of decreased absorption into the bloodstream.
Avoid any drugs that increase your heart rate or make you excited like decongestants because it may counter-act your blood pressure medicine. Decongestants are commonly found in over the counter cough-and-cold products. Ask your pharmacist if you are uncertain about decongestants in over-the-counter products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include unconsciousness, nausea/vomiting, weakness, slow or shallow breathing, dizziness, confusion, unusually slow heartbeat, seizures, drowsiness, or fainting.

NOTES
Do not share this medication with others. This drug may reduce the potassium levels in your blood. Ask your doctor about increasing your dietary potassium. Salt substitutes contain potassium and may be beneficial. Sometimes a potassium supplement medication will be prescribed by your doctor.

MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

MEDICAL ALERT
Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).