Chlorothiazide is a prescription drug that is used to treat water retention and control high blood pressure. This eMedTV segment explains how the medication works, offers dosing information, and lists possible side effects that may occur.
Anemia, headaches, and restlessness are potential side effects of chlorothiazide. This page on the eMedTV site describes other possible chlorothiazide side effects that may occur, including potentially serious ones that require medical attention.
Chlorothiazide is mainly used for the treatment of high blood pressure and water retention. As this eMedTV page explains, it can also be used "off-label" for other conditions. Off-label chlorothiazide uses may include the treatment of hypercalcemia.
Chlorothiazide dosing for adults usually starts at 500 to 1000 mg daily, taken in one or two doses. This eMedTV segment also offers dosing guidelines for children and provides important chlorothiazide dosage tips and precautions.
Digoxin, corticosteroids, and alcohol may potentially cause drug interactions with chlorothiazide. This eMedTV Web page lists other medicines that may interact with chlorothiazide and explains what may happen when these drugs are combined.
You should not take chlorothiazide if you are not producing any urine or are allergic to sulfonamides. This eMedTV page explains who else should avoid the drug and lists other important precautions and warnings with chlorothiazide.
Chlorothiazide may not be safe to use during pregnancy. This section of the eMedTV Web site offers more information on chlorothiazide and pregnancy, and describes the possible problems that may occur in a fetus that is exposed to the drug.
Breastfeeding women should use chlorothiazide with caution. As this eMedTV article explains, studies on chlorothiazide and breastfeeding show that the drug may cause a decrease in milk production in breastfeeding women.
Impotence is a side effect that has been reported with chlorothiazide. This part of the eMedTV archives offers more information on chlorothiazide and impotence, and describes the possible options your doctor may recommend if impotence occurs.
People who overdose on chlorothiazide may develop irregular heart rhythm, dehydration, or low electrolytes. This eMedTV resource lists possible signs of a chlorothiazide overdose and explains what treatment options are available.
Chlorothiazide alternatives may include changing your diet and becoming more physically active. This page on the eMedTV Web site lists chlorothiazide alternatives for controlling high blood pressure and treating water retention.
