Chlorthalidone

Generic Name : Chlorthalidone

TradeName : Hythalton, hygroton, bigroton

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : Chlorthalidone, a water pill, is used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention caused by various conditions. It causes the kidney to eliminate unneeded water and salt into the urine.

When it is to be taken : Chlorthalidone is usually taken once a day or every other day. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. It is best to take this medication in the morning so that you will not have to go to the bathroom during the night. Chlorthalidone controls high blood pressure and fluid retention but does not cure them. Therefore, it is important that you take this medication regularly. If you also are taking cholestyramine, take it at least one hour after chlorthalidone.

How it should be taken : Chlorthalidone comes in the form of tablets. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose. Take it after a meal, preferably breakfast.

Special Instruction :
1. Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly, and blood tests may be needed periodically.
2. Do not stop taking chlorthalidone without consulting your doctor.
3. Be sure that you have enough medication on hand at all times, especially for vacations and holidays.
4. Follow your doctor's dietary recommendations. They may include a low-salt or low-sodium diet, potassium supplements, and increased amounts of potassium-rich foods (e.g., bananas and orange juice).

Side Effects :
1. Frequent urination. This problem should disappear after you take chlorthalidone for a few weeks.
2. Muscle weakness, cramps, thirst. Be sure that you are taking your potassium supplement correctly, if prescribed. Contact your doctor if these effects persist.
3. Sore throat, easy bruising, skin rash. Contact your doctor immediately. 4.Dizziness, lightheadedness. Try arising slowly from a sitting or lying position.

Other Precautions :
1. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes, gout, kidney or liver disease, or an allergy to sulfa drugs before you take chlorthalidone.
2. Inform your doctor if you develop severe vomiting or diarrhea while taking this medication.
3. Alcohol and sleep aids may increase the dizziness or lightheadedness caused by chlorthalidone.
4. Before you take chlorthalidone, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially lithium, probenecid, medication for arthritis or pain, sleeping pills, and other medication for high blood pressure.
5. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor.
6. Before having surgery, tell the doctor about your blood pressure medications.
7. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions :
Keep this medication in the container it came in and out of the reach of children.