HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE (HydroDIURIL®, Esidrix®, Oretic®) is a diuretic. Diuretics increase the amount of urine passed, which causes the body to lose water and salt. Hydrochlorothiazide helps to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is not a cure. It also reduces the swelling and water retention caused by various medical conditions, such as heart, liver, or kidney disease. Generic hydrochlorothiazide capsules or tablets are available.

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•diabetes
•gout
•kidney disease, small amounts of urine, or difficulty passing urine
•liver disease
•pancreatitis
•systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
•an unusual or allergic reaction to hydrochlorothiazide, sulfa drugs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

Take hydrochlorothiazide capsules or tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Remember that you will need to pass urine frequently after taking hydrochlorothiazide. Do not take your doses at a time of day that will cause you problems. Do not take at bedtime.

•amantadine
•amphotericin B
•antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen)
•calcium supplements
•cholestyramine
•colestipol
•diazoxide
•digoxin
•dofetilide
•hormones such as cortisone, hydrocortisone, prednisone
•lithium
•medicines for diabetes
•medicines for high blood pressure, heart disease, or to control the heart rhythm
•monoamine oxidase inhibitors (Azilect®, Eldepryl®, Emsam®, Marplan®, Nardil®, Parnate®, Zelapar™)
•water pills

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.