Has your doctor prescribed this medicine for high blood pressure, or "pressure" as we all know it? Or does anyone in your family use this medicine? So, although the name of this medicine `(Triamterene; Hydrochlorothiazide)` is a bit complicated, understanding it simply is very important for your health. Let's talk about this today.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this is a "water pill" (diuretic). This means that this medicine helps your kidneys to eliminate unnecessary extra water and salt from your body through urine. Think of the blood vessels in our body as pipes that carry water. When the water in these pipes increases, that is, when the blood volume increases, the pressure inside the pipes increases. When this medicine removes that extra water, the pressure decreases and returns to normal.
This is actually a combination of two medications. That is, both drugs called `Triamterene` and `Hydrochlorothiazide` are contained in this one pill. Together, these two help control blood pressure. Sometimes doctors may also prescribe this for other medical conditions. If you have any questions about it, ask your doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before deciding if this medication is right for you, it is extremely important to inform your doctor about your complete health history. Be sure to tell them about any of the following conditions, especially if you have any:
| Your health condition | Why is notification important? |
|---|---|
| Diabetes (High blood sugar) | This medicine may change blood sugar levels. |
| Kidney disease or kidney stones | Because the drug works through the kidneys, it may worsen an existing medical condition. |
| Liver disease | Because it can affect liver function. |
| Immune system diseases such as lupus | Because some symptoms may worsen. |
| Difficulty or lack of urination | This may be a sign of a serious kidney problem, and medication may be able to reverse it. |
| Allergies to sulfa drugs or other medications or foods | Hydrochlorothiazide is a drug that is somewhat related to the Sulfa group, so it can cause allergies. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | Since this medication may affect the baby, the doctor may offer another option. |
How should I use this medicine?
This is very simple.
- Take the prescribed dose exactly as your doctor has prescribed. Taking the medicine at the same time every day will help it work best.
- The medicine can be taken before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with food.
- Do not stop taking your medication until your doctor tells you to. Even if your blood pressure seems to be better now, stopping the medication suddenly can cause your blood pressure to rise dangerously again.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you miss 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 a double dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you may have accidentally taken more medicine than you think, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately, or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Do not take this lightly.
Most importantly: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never give this medicine to someone else, assuming they have the same symptoms as you.
Other medicines that should not be used with this medicine
Some medications can cause dangerous reactions when combined with this medicine. So tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements.
| Medicines that should never be taken together | |
|---|---|
| |
| Other medications that may interact (take only on medical advice) | |
|
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Regular checkups: Go to the clinic at regular intervals as prescribed by your doctor and have your blood tested. In particular, kidney function and blood potassium levels should be checked regularly.
- Check your blood pressure: It's a good idea to check your blood pressure regularly at home. Ask your doctor what your blood pressure should be and what to do if it's high.
- If you have diabetes: This medicine may slightly increase your blood sugar levels. So if you have diabetes, be extra careful with your blood sugar levels. Talk to your doctor about whether you need to make any changes to your diet or diabetes medication.
- Avoid dehydration: This medication can dehydrate your body, so ask your doctor about how much water you should drink per day. Symptoms like excessive thirst, dry mouth, and dark yellow urine may be signs of dehydration.
- Dizziness and drowsiness: Some people may feel dizzy or drowsy when taking this medicine. Therefore , avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how this medicine affects you. Especially if you are an elderly person, stand up slowly when you stand up or get up from a sitting position. Otherwise, you may feel dizzy and fall.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Some people's skin may become sensitive to the sun while taking this medication. So avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. If you do go out, wear clothing that covers your skin and use sunscreen.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Watch out for the following symptoms.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reaction | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Kidney Injury | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| High Potassium | Muscle weakness, rapid or irregular heartbeat. |
| Dizziness/Low Blood Pressure | Severe dizziness, feeling like you're going to faint, blurred vision. |
| Kidney Stones | Blood in the urine, pain during urination, back or pelvic pain. |
| Eye pain or vision changes | Sudden eye pain, blurred vision, seeing rings around lights. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | Mild, occasional headache. |
| Stomach discomfort | Mild stomach upset or nausea. |
| Changes in sexual function | Decreased sexual desire or other difficulties. |
Take-Home Message
- Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has prescribed, at the right time. Never change the dose yourself.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins you take, and any other medical conditions you have.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any serious side effects such as severe dizziness, allergic symptoms (skin rash, swelling), or heart rhythm abnormalities.
- Drink enough fluids as directed by your doctor, but be aware of signs of dehydration.
- This is a medicine prescribed for you only. Never share it with others.
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