Methyclothiazide

Generic Name : Methyclothiazide

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : Methyclothiazide, a water pill, is used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention caused by various conditions, including heart disease. It causes the kidneys to eliminate unneeded water and salt from the body.

When it is to be taken : Methyclothiazide is usually taken once a day. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. It is best to take this medication in the morning, after breakfast, to avoid going to the bathroom during the night. Methyclothiazide begins to work about two hours after it is taken and goes on working for about 24 hours.

How it should be taken : Methyclothiazide comes in the form of tablets. 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 may be done occasionally.
2. Do not stop taking methyclothiazide without consulting your doctor.
3. Special dietary instructions should be followed. Follow your doctor’s recommendations. They may include a low-salt or low-sodium diet, potassium supplements, and potassium-rich foods like bananas and orange juice in your diet.
4. If you forget to take a dose, omit it. Take your regular dose at the next scheduled time.

Side Effects :
1. Frequent urination. This problem should disappear after you take methyclothiazide for a few weeks.
2. Muscle weakness, cramps, thirst. Be sure that you are taking your potassium supplement correctly, if prescribed.
3. Contact your doctor if these effects persist.
4. Sore throat, easy bruising, skin rash. Contact your doctor immediately. 5. Dizziness, lightheadedness. Try arising slowly from a sitting or lying position.

Other Precautions :
1. Before you take methyclothiazide, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, diabetes, gout, or an allergy to sulfa drugs.
2. Inform your doctor if you develop severe vomiting or diarrhoea while taking this medication.
3. Alcohol and sleep aids may increase the side effects of methyclothiazide, causing dizziness or lightheadedness when you arise from a sitting or lying position.
4. Ask your doctor for advice about the safe use of alcohol and other medications.
5. Before taking methyclothiazide, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially lithium, probenecid, medication for arthritis or pain, sleeping pills, or other medication for high blood pressure.
6. If you are taking cholestyramine, take it at least one hour after methyclothiazide.
7. Before having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor about your blood pressure medications.
8. Before you begin to take methyclothiazide, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.
9. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

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