Drug Side Effects Info

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), or hydrochlorot, is a type of diuretic that helps prevent the body from absorbing too much salt which can cause fluid retention, or excessive water in the body. As a thiazide diuretic, HCTZ increases the elimination of potassium, sodium, chloride, phosphate, bicarbonate, and magnesium, while calcium excretion is reduced.

It is used to treat fluid retention, or edema, in people with congestive heart failure or those on steroids or estrogen. Getting rid of extra water is vital for this group of patients as it helps to reduce the amount of fluid in the lungs to make breathing easier, as well as to reduce swelling of the stomach/abdomen, arms and legs.

The medication is also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), cirrhosis of the liver, kidney disorders and osteoporosis by promoting calcium retention in the kidney thus decreasing mineral bone loss.

As with most drugs, HCTZ is generally well-tolerated by most users. However, some side effects such as headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, stomach upset, loss of appetite, constipation and diarrhea may occur as the body adjusts to the medication. Some people may also experience decreased sexual ability or increased sensitivity to the sun.

Due to its diuretic properties, HCTZ may cause dehydration and loss of salt/minerals from the body, though this is unlikely. Serious symptoms of dehydration or mineral loss include dry mouth, thirst, fast/irregular heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, decrease in the amount of urine, severe dizziness or drowsiness, fainting, muscle cramps, weakness, and seizures.

On a more serious note, HCTZ may trigger allergic reactions such as hives; breathing difficulties, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Hydrochlorothiazide is known to lower the levels of blood potassium, sodium, and magnesium, wherein these conditions can lead to heart rhythm abnormalities. Hypokalemia, a condition in which the concentration of potassium in the blood is low, is also an occasional side-effect, though it usually can be prevented by potassium supplements or combining HCTZ with a potassium-sparing diuretic.

Hydrochlorothiazide has also been reported to aggravate kidney dysfunction and is used with caution in patients with kidney disease. During HCTZ treatment, blood uric acid levels may increase, leading to episodes of acute gout in some individuals. Additionally, thiazide diuretics may increase blood sugar levels, resulting in the development of latent diabetes.

In any case, it is not possible to anticipate side effects of hydrochlorothiazide, except for those with chronic diseases. Patients should inform their doctor if any symptom develop or change in intensity so as to determine if it is safe to continue taking hydrochlorothiazide medication.