Triamterene-HCTZ Side Effects

Triamterene-HCTZ is a commonly prescribed diuretic and blood-pressure medication. As with any medication, side effects are to be expected. While some side effects are minor, others must be addressed immediately.

Uses

• Triamterene-HCTZ is a drug prescribed to alleviate moderate hypertension, or high blood pressure, and to relieve fluid retention in the extremities. Triamterene-HCTZ combines two medicines, triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide, to make a medication that is effective in treating patients with the aforementioned disorders.

Function

• Triamterene-HCTZ works by limiting the kidneys' ability to absorb sodium from dietary intake. By limiting the body's ability to absorb sodium, fluid retention within the body is greatly alleviated, as is blood pressure.
  Brand names of triamterene-HCTZ include Diazide, which is made by GlaxoSmithKline, and Maxzide, manufactured by Mylan Pharmaceuticals. Generics also are available.

Dosing

• To maximize the blood-pressure lowering benefits of triamterene-HCTZ, the pills or capsules should be taken at the same time each day. It is better to take triamterene-HCTZ in the morning because it can cause increased urination. Taking it at night can lead to multiple trips to the bathroom while you're trying to sleep.

Initial Follow-up

• After you begin taking triamterene-HCTZ, your doctor will probably schedule a follow-up exam and blood work within four to six weeks to test how your body is responding. Because triamterene-HCTZ alters fluid and electrolyte levels in the body, your health care provider will want to make sure your body's chemistry is within normal limits.

Side Effects and Contraindications

• Side effects of triamterene-HCTZ include low blood pressure, or hypotension, nausea, insomnia, diarrhea or constipation, depression, hyperglycemia, sensitivity to sunlight and impotence.
  If you have kidney disease, liver disorders, asthma, diabetes, gout, lupus or drug allergies, you will need to alert your health care provider to determine the possible risks of taking triamterene-HCTZ. Adverse reactions can result in patients who have these conditions, so your doctor and you must decide if the benefits of taking triamterene-HCTZ outweigh the risks.

When to Contact Your Doctor

• If you should develop a rash or have difficulty breathing while taking triamterene-HCTZ or your side effects become extremely bothersome, contact your health care provider at once.