Polythiazide

Polythiazide is a thiazide diuretic that is used in the treatment of hypertension and edema. It works by inhibiting the kidney's ability to retain water, thereby increasing the amount of urine produced. This helps to lower blood pressure and reduce swelling.

Mechanism of Action

Polythiazide inhibits the sodium-chloride symporter in the distal convoluted tubule of the kidneys. This results in an increase in the excretion of sodium, chloride, and water from the body. By increasing the amount of water excreted, polythiazide helps to lower blood pressure and reduce swelling.

Uses

Polythiazide is used to treat hypertension, or high blood pressure. It is also used to treat edema, or swelling, that is caused by conditions such as heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and nephrotic syndrome.

Side Effects

Common side effects of polythiazide include dizziness, headache, and upset stomach. More serious side effects can include electrolyte imbalance, gout, and hypotension.

Contraindications

Polythiazide is contraindicated in patients with anuria, or the inability to produce urine. It is also contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to thiazide diuretics.

Interactions

Polythiazide can interact with other medications, including digoxin, lithium, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These interactions can increase the risk of side effects and decrease the effectiveness of the medications.

See Also

• Thiazide
• Diuretic
• Hypertension
• Edema

Polythiazide

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  Chemical structure of Polythiazide
• Space-filling model of the Polythiazide molecule
  Space-filling model of the Polythiazide molecule
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  Sgarlato's angle of metatarsus adductus