hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride

What is the most important information I should know about hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride?

Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used with hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride. Your doctor may need to change your treatment plan if you use potassium supplements or certain diuretics (spironolactone, triamterene).

If you have diabetes, do not use hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride together with any medication that contains aliskiren (Amturnide, Tekturna, Tekamlo, Valturna).

What is hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride?

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that helps prevent your body from absorbing too much salt, which can cause fluid retention.

Amiloride is a potassium sparing-diuretic that also prevents your body from absorbing too much salt and keeps your potassium levels from getting too low.

The combination of hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride is used to treat fluid retention (edema) and high blood pressure (hypertension).

Hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride?

• kidney disease or are unable to urinate;
• high potassium levels (hyperkalemia); or
• if you are taking potassium supplements.

Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used with hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride. Your doctor may need to change your treatment plan if you use potassium supplements or certain diuretics (spironolactone, triamterene).

If you have diabetes, do not use hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride together with any medication that contains aliskiren (Amturnide, Tekturna, Tekamlo, Valturna).

To make sure hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• high cholesterol, heart disease, coronary artery disease;
• cirrhosis or other liver disease;
• glaucoma;
• a breathing disorder;
• gout; or
• an allergy to sulfa drugs or penicillin.

This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

How should I take hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Your blood and urine may also be tested if you have been vomiting or are dehydrated.

If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while taking hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride?

Avoid a diet high in salt. Too much salt will cause your body to retain water and can make this medication less effective.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink. In some cases, drinking too much liquid can be as unsafe as not drinking enough.

What are the possible side effects of hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride?

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• high sodium--headache, confusion, slurred speech, hallucinations, vomiting, severe weakness, muscle cramps, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady, shallow breathing; or
• high potassium--slow heart rate, weak pulse, muscle weakness, tingly feeling.

Common side effects may include:

• diarrhea, constipation;
• mild stomach pain; or
• tired feeling.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride?

Tell your doctor about all medicines you use, and those you start or stop using during your treatment with hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride, especially:

• lithium;
• tacrolimus; or
• other blood pressure medications.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride.