Triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide – Oral, Dyazide, Maxzide
Warning: Medication Uses, How To Use, Side Effects, Precautions, Drug Interactions, Overdose, Notes, Missed Dose, StorageWARNING: This medication can raise your body’s potassium levels. This effect is more likely to occur in patients with kidney disease, diabetes, or serious illness or in the elderly. Potassium levels must be closely monitored while taking this medication. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop muscle weakness or a very slow heartbeat. USES: This medication is a combination of two "water pills" (diuretics). It increases urine production and helps the body get rid of excess water. Triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide is used in patients at risk for serious potassium loss. It is also used to treat high blood pressure and reduce swelling due to heart, liver, or kidney disease. HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once a day, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Take this medication at least 4 hours before bedtime to avoid waking up to urinate. Use this medication regularly and continue even if you feel well. Do not stop without consulting your doctor. Cholestyramine and colestipol can decrease the absorption of hydrochlorothiazide. Separate these drugs by at least 4 hours. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if your condition worsens. SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, stomach upset, diarrhea, or constipation may occur. Notify your doctor or pharmacist if these effects persist or worsen. This medication may lead to excessive loss of body water and minerals. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience muscle cramps or weakness, confusion, severe dizziness, dry mouth or thirst, nausea or vomiting, fast/irregular heartbeat, decreased urine, fainting, seizures, numbness/tingling, decreased sexual ability, or kidney stones. Seek medical attention if you have a persistent sore throat or fever, easy bleeding or bruising, stomach pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, or yellowing of the eyes/skin. Serious allergic reactions are rare but seek immediate medical attention if they occur. Not a complete list of possible side effects. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of other effects not listed. PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies. Do not use if you have severe kidney disease, high blood potassium levels, or severe liver disease. Discuss your medical history, especially kidney stones, liver disease, untreated mineral imbalance, gout, lupus, metabolic imbalance, and folic acid deficiency. Monitor your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes. Use sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun. Inform your doctor or dentist before surgery. Use caution in the elderly. Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if clearly needed. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and herbal products you use. Avoid certain medications and potassium supplements while using triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide. Consult your doctor before considering these interactions. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms include fainting, severe weakness, decreased urine, or slow/shallow breathing. NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Lifestyle changes, like stress reduction, exercise, and dietary alterations, may increase the effectiveness of this medicine. Have regular blood pressure and lab tests. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not double the dose. STORAGE: Store at controlled room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep medication away from children and pets. Follow proper disposal procedures. CONDITIONS OF USE: This database is intended to supplement the judgment of healthcare professionals. Consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication or altering your treatment.
