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ChlorothiazidePronounced"klor-oh-THIGH-uh-zide" Common brand names:Diuril UsesThis medication is used to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Chlorothiazide is a "water pill" (diuretic) that causes you to make more urine. This helps your body get rid of extra salt and water. This medication is also used to decrease swelling (edema) caused by conditions such as cancer, heart failure, liver disease, and kidney disease. This effect can help your kidneys work better and lessen symptoms such as trouble breathing and swelling in your ankles, feet, hands, or belly. Other UsesThis section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional. This drug may also be used for a condition known as "water diabetes" (diabetes insipidus). It may also be used to reduce the risk of calcium kidney stones. How to Use This MedicationTake this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day. 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 are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Shake the bottle well before each dose. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dosage is also based on age and weight. Use this medication regularly 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. Cholestyramine and colestipol can decrease the absorption of chlorothiazide. If you are taking either of these drugs, take them at least 4 hours before or after taking chlorothiazide. 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). |