 
A-Z Indexes Food Health Guides
Health News |
Spironolacton-HydrochlorothiazPronounced"THIGH-uh-zide/SPY-row-no-lack-tone" Common brand names:Aldactazide UsesThis product is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, or extra fluid in the body (edema). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This product contains two medications: spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide. Both medications are "water pills" (diuretics) and cause your body to get rid of extra salt and water. This effect helps to relax the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily and may increase the amount of urine you make when you first start the product. Spironolactone also helps to treat or prevent low blood potassium levels and block the activity of a certain natural substance (aldosterone) that can cause edema. Your doctor may direct you to start taking the individual medications first, and then switch you over to this combination product if this is the best dose combination for you. How to Use This MedicationTake this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. If you take this drug too close to bedtime, you may need to wake up to urinate. It is best to take this medication at least 4 hours before your bedtime. If you have any questions about how and when to take this medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. If you also take certain drugs to lower your cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take this product at least 4 hours before or at least 4 to 6 hours after these medications. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (for example, your blood pressure readings remain high or increase). |