Are you also using Chlorothiazide tablets? Here are the things you need to know

Has your doctor prescribed you a "water pill"? Or has he mentioned a medicine that helps you lose water weight? If so, it's likely a medicine called Chlorothiazide. Simply put, it's a diuretic. It works by making your body excrete extra salt and water through urine. That's why doctors prescribe it for high blood pressure, as well as to control swelling in the body caused by heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease.

Things you should tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before prescribing Chlorothiazide to you, your doctor will need to know your complete medical history. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• If your body is dehydrated, that means it doesn't have enough water.
• If you have diabetes or high blood sugar levels.
• If the levels of electrolytes in your blood, such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium, are low or high.
• If you have kidney disease or liver disease.
• If you have a condition called lupus.
• If you have previously had an allergic reaction to Chlorothiazide, sulfa drugs, other medications, foods, preservatives, or dyes.
• If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How exactly do I use this medicine?

It is very important to follow the doctor's instructions exactly when using this medicine.

• Take this medicine at the same time every day , exactly as directed on your prescription.
• This can be taken before or after meals, but if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with food.
• Continue using this medicine until your doctor tells you to stop.
• This is a medicine prescribed for you only. Never share your medicine with anyone else.

What if I miss a dose of medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time for any reason.

Overdose

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Other drugs and things that may interact with Chlorothiazide

When you take this medicine, it may interact with other things you are taking. Therefore, it is essential to tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including vitamins and herbal remedies. These can cause problems, especially with the following:

• Barbiturates (e.g. phenobarbital)
• Lithium
• Diabetes medication
• Other medications for high blood pressure
• Cholesterol-lowering medications (e.g. cholestyramine, colestipol)
• NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Other painkillers prescribed by a doctor
• Skeletal muscle relaxants
• Steroid-type medications (e.g. prednisone, cortisone)

This list is not exhaustive. You should also tell your doctor if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs.

Things you should be especially careful about while taking this medicine:

You need to take a little extra care of your health while using this medicine.

• Go for regular check-ups: Go to the clinic at the scheduled times as prescribed by the doctor and check your condition.
• Check your blood pressure: Measure your blood pressure at home as your doctor tells you. Ask your doctor what your blood pressure should be and when you should call your doctor if it changes.
• Watch out for dehydration: If you have severe diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating, tell your doctor , as this medication can be dangerous if you lose too much fluid from your body.
• Food and drink: You may need to follow a special diet while taking this medicine. Ask your doctor about this. Also, ask how many glasses of water you should drink per day.
• Drowsiness and dizziness: This medicine may make you feel drowsy and dizzy. So avoid doing tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how this affects you. Avoid getting up or sitting down suddenly, especially if you are elderly.
• Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of this medication.
• Other medications: If you have a cough, cold, or body ache, do not take over-the-counter medications without first consulting your doctor. Some medications can increase your blood pressure.

What side effects might I experience?

Like any medicine, Chlorothiazide can cause side effects. Some of them are serious, while others are common. It is important to be aware of these.

How do you keep your medicine safe?

Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Throw away expired medicine.

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