What Hydrochlorothiazide is used for Hydrochlorothiazide is used: • To treat high blood pressure (hypertension) • To treat water retention (edema) in your body. Do not take Hydrochlorothiazide • If you’re allergic to the active substances or any other component of this medicine. • If you are unable to pass urine (anuria). • If you are taking Lithium. Warnings and precautions Talk to your doctor about all your medical conditions before taking this medicine including: • If you are allergic to sulfonamide antibiotics or sulfonylureas. • If you have kidney problems. • If you have liver problems. • If you have heart problems. • If you have diabetes. • If you have a low blood pressure. • If you are dehydrated. • If you have abnormal electrolyte levels in your blood. • If you have glaucoma. • If you have gout. • If you have an autoimmune disease called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Possible side effects Stop using this product and seek immediate medical help if you develop rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat. Serious side effects: • Kidney problems • Eye problems • Serious electrolyte problems Other medicines and Hydrochlorothiazide Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking. Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with the following medicines: • Lithium • Digoxin • Other medicines used to lower blood pressure • Medicines that affect potassium levels in your blood • Medicines used for diabetes • Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs • Steroids • Chlestyramine and Cholestipol (for cholesterol) How to take Hydrochlorothiazide • This medicine is intended for adults. • Take as indicated by your doctor. • If you are taking this medicine once daily, take it in the morning. • For water retention: the usual starting dose is 25 - 100 mg daily in 1 to 2 divided doses. Your doctor will adjust the dose for you based on your response (maximum 200 mg/day). • For high blood pressure: the usual dosing is 12.5 - 25 mg once daily (maximum 50 mg/day). How to store Hydrochlorothiazide • Store at room temperature 68 to 77°F (20 to 25°C). • Protect from sunlight. • Keep this medicine out of reach of children. • Do not use this medicine after the expiry date stated on the package. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.