Metolazone

Generic Name : Metolazone

TradeName : Xaroxolyn

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

When it is to be taken : Metolazone is usually taken once a day or every other day. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. It is best to take metolazone in the morning so that you will not have to go to the bathroom during the night. The medication begins to work within one hour after it is taken and goes on working for 12 to 24 hours.

How it should be taken : Metolazone comes in tablet form. 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 metolazone without consulting your doctor. Be sure that you have enough medication on hand at all times.
3. Follow your doctor's dietary recommendations. They may include a low-salt or low-sodium diet, potassium supplements, and potassium-rich foods e.g., bananas and orange juice in your diet.
4. Take the missed dose if you remember it less than 12 hours before your next scheduled dose.

Side Effects :
1. Frequent urination. This problem should disappear after you take metolazone for a few weeks.
2. Bloated stomach, chest pain, chills, palpitations. If these problems are bothersome or get worse, contact your doctor.
3. Muscle weakness, cramps, thirst. Be sure that you are taking your potassium supplement correctly, if prescribed. Contact your doctor if these effects persist.
4. Fever, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash. Contact your doctor immediately.
5. Dizziness, lightheadedness. Try arising slowly from a sitting or lying position.

Other Precautions :
1. Before taking metolazone, tell your doctor if you have diabetes, gout, kidney or liver disease, or an allergy to sulfa drugs.
2. Inform your doctor if you develop severe vomiting or diarrhoea while taking metolazone.
3. Alcohol and sleep aids may increase the effects of metolazone, causing dizziness or lightheadness. Ask your doctor for advice about the safe use of alcohol and other medications.
4. Before taking metolazone, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially lithium, probenecid, medication for arthritis or pain, sleepig pills, and other medication for high blood pressure.
5. If you are taking cholestyramine, take it at least one hour after metolazone.
6. If you are pregnant or brest-feeding a baby, tell your doctor before taking metolazone. If you become pregnant while taking metolazone, contact your doctor immediately.
7. Before having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor about your blood pressure medications.

Storage Conditions :
1. Keep this medication in the container it came it, away from direct sunlight, and out of the reach of children.
2. Do not store it where there is a lot of moisture in the air, such as the bathroom.