Hydrochlorothiazide

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ or HCT) is a diuretic medication often used to treat high blood pressure and swelling due to fluid build up. It's classified as a thiazide diuretic and works by inhibiting the kidney's ability to retain water.

Hydrochlorothiazide-2D-skeletal

Pharmacology

Hydrochlorothiazide is an oral medication and is typically taken once per day, usually in the morning to prevent the need for urination at night. Its onset of action generally begins within two hours, and it reaches peak effect in about four hours. The duration of the drug's effect is approximately six to 12 hours.

Mechanism of Action

Thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide act on the distal convoluted tubule, a portion of the kidney. They inhibit the sodium-chloride symporter, leading to a reduction in the reabsorption of sodium and chloride ions. This increases the excretion of water, sodium, chloride, and potassium in the urine, resulting in a diuretic effect.

Uses

The primary use of hydrochlorothiazide is in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). By helping to remove excess fluid, it lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload on the heart.

It is also used in the management of edema (fluid retention), often in patients with congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or kidney disorders. Furthermore, it may be used to treat patients with calcium-containing kidney stones to reduce calcium excretion and stone formation.

Side Effects

Common side effects of hydrochlorothiazide include dizziness, headache, and upset stomach. It can also cause more frequent urination, leading to possible dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Serious side effects are less common but can include electrolyte imbalances such as low potassium (hypokalemia), low sodium (hyponatremia), and high calcium (hypercalcemia). Other rare but serious side effects can include kidney problems, severe allergic reactions, and a decreased number of white blood cells or platelets.

Contraindications

Hydrochlorothiazide should not be used in individuals who are allergic to it or other sulfa drugs. It should also be used with caution in patients with severe liver disease, kidney disease, or gout. Patients with diabetes may need to monitor their blood sugar more closely while taking this medication, as it can affect blood sugar control.

See Also

• Diuretic
• Hypertension
• Edema
• Thiazide diuretic

References

• "Hydrochlorothiazide". MedlinePlus. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved 2023-05-18.
• "Hydrochlorothiazide: Drug Information". UpToDate. Retrieved 2023-05-18.
• "Hydrochlorothiazide". The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. Retrieved 2023-05-18.
• "Hydrochlorothiazide". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2023-05-18.

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