Hydrochlorothiazide

Overview

It's often combined with other blood pressure medicines in one pill, such as lisinopril-HCTZ or losartan-HCTZ.

What it's used for

• High blood pressure
• Fluid buildup (edema) from heart, liver, or kidney problems

How to take it

• Take it in the morning so you aren't up at night to pee.
• Take it with or without food.
• Drink normal amounts of fluids unless told otherwise.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

• Peeing more often
• Dizziness
• Low potassium or sodium
• Sensitivity to sunlight

Warnings

• Use sunscreen; long-term use is linked to higher skin cancer risk.
• It can raise blood sugar and uric acid.
• Tell your provider if you're allergic to sulfa drugs.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

• Lithium levels can rise to toxic levels.
• NSAIDs can weaken its effect.
• Other medicines that lower potassium add to that effect.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Usually not a first choice in pregnancy. Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Heart failure