Hydrochlorothiazide and Triamterene

Generic Name : Hydrochlorothiazide and Triamterene

TradeName : AldactideDytide, Frusemene

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : The combination of hydrochlorothiazide and triamterene is used to treat high blood pressure and water retention caused by conditions such as heart, kidney, and liver disease. This medication causes the kidneys to eliminate unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine.

When it is to be taken : This combination is usually take once or twice a day, after meals. If you are to take it once a day, take it in the morning after breakfast; if you are to take it twice a day, take it in the morning and in the middle or late afternoon to avoid going to the bathroom at night. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully.

How it should be taken : This combination comes in the form of tablets and capsules. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose.

Special Instruction :
1. Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly, and blood tests also may be done occasionally.
2. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your doctor may want to decrease your dose gradually. Be sure that you have enough medication on hand at all times.
3. Special dietary instructions should be followed. Follow your doctor's recommendations. You may be instructed to avoid salt substitutes and to limit your consumption of potassium-rich foods such as bananas, conconuts, dates, figs, prunes, apricots, peaches, grapefruit juice, tomato juice, and orange juice.
4. If you forget to take a dose, do not take the missed dose when you remember it. Omit it and take your regular dose at the next scheduled time.

Side Effects :
1. Frequent urination. This problem should disappear after you take this drug for a few weeks.
2. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea. Take this medication after meals if you experience nausea. Notify your doctor if symptoms persist.
3. Lightheadedness on getting up from a lying or sitting position. Get up slowly. Contact your doctor if this problem persists.
4. Muscle weakness or cramps, fatigue, palpitations, irregular heartbeat, abnormal sensations. Contact your doctor immediately.
5. Increased risk of sunburn. Avoid long periods in the sun and protect your skin with clothing or a sunscreen preparation.
6. Fever and sore throat, unusual bruising, skin rash. Contact your doctor immediately.

Other Precautions :
1. Before you take this medication, tell your doctor if you have diabetes; heart, kidney, or liver problems; or an allergy to sulfa drugs.
2. Alcohol and other medications may affect the action of this combination. Tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially indomethacin, lithium, and drugs for arthritis.
3. Alcohol can add to the dizziness and lightheadedness caused by this medication.
4. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby, tell your doctor before you take this medication.
5. Before having surgery, including dental surgery
, tell the doctor about your medications.
6. 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. Store it at room temperature.