🍽️ althiazide,(prescription)

Diuretic Action: Hydrochlorothiazide works by increasing the excretion of sodium and water from the body through the kidneys, leading to increased urine production. This helps reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure.

Treatment of Hypertension: Hydrochlorothiazide is commonly used in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). It helps lower blood pressure by reducing the volume of fluid in the bloodstream and relaxing blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow and reducing cardiac workload.

Edema: Hydrochlorothiazide is also used to treat edema (fluid retention) associated with conditions such as congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, and kidney disorders. It helps reduce fluid buildup in tissues and improve symptoms such as swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen.

Combination Therapy: Hydrochlorothiazide is often used in combination with other antihypertensive medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), beta-blockers, or calcium channel blockers, to achieve better blood pressure control.

Electrolyte Imbalance: Hydrochlorothiazide can cause electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia (low potassium levels), hyponatremia (low sodium levels), and hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels). Regular monitoring of electrolyte levels is recommended, especially in patients at risk for electrolyte disturbances, such as those with heart failure or liver cirrhosis.

Metabolic Effects: Hydrochlorothiazide may affect glucose metabolism and lipid levels, leading to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and dyslipidemia (abnormal lipid levels). Patients with diabetes or dyslipidemia should be monitored closely for changes in blood glucose and lipid profiles during hydrochlorothiazide therapy.

Renal Function: Hydrochlorothiazide is eliminated primarily through the kidneys. It may affect renal function, particularly in patients with pre-existing kidney disease or impaired renal function. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in these patients to prevent further deterioration of kidney function.

Orthostatic Hypotension: Hydrochlorothiazide may cause orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing up from a sitting or lying position. Patients should be advised to change positions slowly to minimize the risk of falls or dizziness.

Photosensitivity: Hydrochlorothiazide can increase sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburn or skin rash with sun exposure. Patients should use sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, while taking hydrochlorothiazide.

Contraindications: Hydrochlorothiazide is contraindicated in patients with anuria (lack of urine production), severe renal impairment, or known hypersensitivity to sulfonamide-derived drugs.