Hydrochlorothiazide Tablet: Benefits, Side Effects & Precautions
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Daya S Vaswani, Cardiology
Hydrochlorothiazide is a prescription drug available in tablets and capsules. The most widely prescribed thiazide diuretic is hydrochlorothiazide.
It is suggested that it be used to treat oedema and hypertension.
Hydrochlorothiazide and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers are present in several combination products.
Key Benefits:
Conditions Hydrochlorothiazide Treats:
Hydrochlorothiazide works by:
It may also cause the body to excrete potassium, which is why levels must be monitored.
Dosage Information
Hydrochlorothiazide Dosage, Forms and Strengths
Dosage for Edema
If a dose is missing, take it as soon as you recall it. If the time for the next dose is close, skip the skipped dose. At your normal time, take your next dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed Hydrochlorothiazide tablets, there is a chance of having a harmful effect on your body's functions.
Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionIf you have any of these serious symptoms, immediately contact your doctor for further assistance. If you have any kind of reaction to hydrochlorothiazide, try avoiding it.
Before taking Hydrochlorothiazide talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications.
The product may contain some inactive ingredients which can cause some serious allergic reactions or some other serious problems.
Before taking Hydrochlorothiazide, talk with your doctor if you have any medical history, such as:
For People with Kidney Problems
If you have impaired kidney function, use caution when taking hydrochlorothiazide. Your kidneys clean this substance from your body, but if your kidneys don't work as well, this drug can build up in your body and cause more side effects.
Your doctor could stop your treatment with this drug if your kidney function gets worse.
For people with liver problems
When you have a low liver function or progressive liver disease, use this medicine with caution. Hydrochlorothiazide can cause an imbalance of electrolytes and fluids. This will exacerbate your liver function.
For women who are Pregnant
If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, speak to your doctor. Animal experiments do not always predict how human beings will react. Therefore, if specifically needed, this medication'should only be used in pregnancy.
For women who are breastfeeding
In a child who is breast-feeding, hydrochlorothiazide can transfer into breast milk and can cause side effects. If you're breastfeeding your infant, speak to your doctor.
This medication is approved for use in adults and is generally considered safe and effective when used as directed. It can also be used in children, but it is essential that a qualified physician adjusts the dosage appropriately. Factors such as the child's age, weight, and specific health needs must be taken into account to ensure both safety and therapeutic benefit.
Alcohol consumption may increase the risk of dizziness or fainting, especially in individuals with low blood pressure. It is important to moderate alcohol intake to avoid these adverse effects. Additionally, high-sodium diets should be avoided, as they can further complicate blood pressure management and overall cardiovascular health. Incorporating potassium-rich foods such as bananas and oranges into your diet may help prevent low potassium levels, which are essential for proper muscle and nerve function. Following these guidelines can support better health outcomes and minimize potential complications.
May Interact With:
Always disclose all drugs and supplements to your healthcare provider.
Recommended Storage:
What Happens If Not Stored Properly?
| Hydrochlorothiazide | Chlorthalidone |
|---|---|
| Hydrochlorothiazide is a prescription drug which comes in the form of tablet and capsules. The most widely prescribed thiazide diuretic is hydrochlorothiazide. | Chlorthalidone is a medicine that is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure reduction helps prevent strokes, heart attacks and problems with the kidneys. |
| Hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat heart failure, cirrhosis, chronic kidney failure, corticosteroid drugs, and nephrotic syndrome caused by excessive fluid accumulation and swelling (edema) in the body | Chlorthalidone, a 'water pill, ' is used to treat various conditions, including heart disease, that cause high blood pressure and fluid retention. |
Some of the common side effects of Hydrochlorothiazide are:
|
Some of the common side effects of Chlorthalidone are:
|

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!
040-68334455Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) acts in the body to get rid of excess fluid. It can cause weight loss by getting rid of this fluid. Bear in mind that this is not fat loss, but water weight.
Take this medicine by mouth as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day with or without food in the morning. You will need to get up to urinate if you are taking this medication too close to bedtime. At least 4 hours before bedtime, it is best to take this drug.
Tell your doctor whether you have liver failure, kidney disease, glaucoma, asthma or allergies, gout, diabetes, or whether you are allergic to sulfa medications or penicillin before using hydrochlorothiazide.
Yes, since it increases urination, it can lead to dehydration if fluid intake is not properly managed.
Yes, it may cause low potassium levels (hypokalemia), which can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, or irregular heartbeats.
Yes, it may increase blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes or those at risk for developing it.
Alcohol may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of dizziness or fainting, so it’s best to limit or avoid it.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.