Hydrochlorothiazide Problems

Hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat fluid retention, as well as high blood pressure. Because it helps the kidneys remove unnecessary water and salt from the body, it is a diuretic and is sometimes called a "water pill." Taken orally once or twice a day, hydrochlorothiazide is generally prescribed for those with heart disease, but may be given for other conditions as well. Hydrochlorothiazide's benefits, however, come with potential problems.

Function

• Typically, hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat high blood pressure, though it does not actually cure the condition. Patients with diabetes insipidus and electrolyte disturbances are also prescribed this medication. Hydrochlorothiazide is sometimes given to patients with high levels of blood calcium to prevent kidney stones.

Common Side Effects

• The most common side effect reported is frequent urination. Since hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, this is to be expected to last for the first few weeks. However, other symptoms, if severe or prolonged, need to be reported to your physician. These may include muscle weakness or cramps, thirst, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, headache, hair loss or loss of appetite. Hydrochlorothiazide, like other diuretics, may also cause low potassium levels, low blood pressure or dizziness.

Serious Side Effects

• Less common and more serious side effects include sore throat with fever, unusual bruising or bleeding, severe skin rash with peeling skin and difficulty breathing or swallowing. If you have any of these symptoms, you need to call your doctor immediately.

Warning

• If you have been prescribed hydrochlorothiazide, you'll need to take precautions to minimize risk. First, tell your doctor of any drug allergies you have, particularly to sulfa drugs. Keep your doctor informed of all over-the-counter and prescription drugs you're taking, especially drugs for high blood pressure or anti-inflammatory drugs like Motrin or Aleve.

  If you have, or have had, diabetes, gout, or kidney, liver, thyroid or parathyroid disease, tell your doctor. Also, tell him or her if you are pregnant or plan to be. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, immediately tell your doctor. If you're scheduled for surgery, inform your health care provider that you've been prescribed hydrochlorothiazide.

Precautions

• Be aware of the effect hydrochlorothiazide has on you. Don't drive or operate machinery if it makes you drowsy. Know that alcohol can exaggerate the effect of drowsiness as well. Since hydrochlorothiazide may make your skin sun-sensitive, avoid extended sun exposure and use a sunscreen.