It is made by GlaxoSmithKline.
Generic Dyazide is made by several manufacturers.
Some specific uses of Dyazide include:
Dyazide is a diuretic. These medicines are commonly referred to as "water pills." Dyazide contains two diuretics that work together to keep electrolyte levels in balance. Hydrochlorothiazide, while effective, often causes low potassium levels in the blood. On the other hand, triamterene is a "potassium-sparing" diuretic, meaning that it can actually increase potassium levels in the blood. When taken together, these medications balance each other out.
The medication works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is passed out through the urine. By doing this, Dyazide causes a decrease in blood volume. Because of this effect, the medication can
lower blood pressure and also help with water retention.
Dyazide has been shown to be effective for controlling
blood pressure without causing electrolyte problems. One study gave the medication to people who had been taking
hydrochlorothiazide but developed electrolyte imbalances, especially low potassium. In these people, the medication was effective and also helped to correct electrolyte imbalances.
When and How to Take Dyazide
Some general considerations for when and how to take Dyazide include:
- The medication comes in capsule form. It is usually taken by mouth once a day.
- You can take it with or without food.
- The medication should be taken at the same time each day to maintain even levels of the drug in your blood. However, some people -- especially people taking it for fluid retention -- do not need to take it every day.
- Because Dyazide increases urination, it is best to take it the morning (to avoid needing to get up to use the bathroom throughout the night), unless your healthcare provider instructs you otherwise.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of Dyazide that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be currently taking
- How you respond to Dyazide.
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Dyazide. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
A few of the possible side effects of Dyazide include:
(Click Dyazide Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Dyazide
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
- Liver disease, including cirrhosis
- Kidney disease or kidney failure
- A history of kidney stones
- Diabetes
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus or SLE)
- Gout
- Fluid or electrolyte problems
- Any allergies, including allergies to sulfa drugs, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also let your healthcare provider know if you are:
You should also make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Dyazide?
People who take too much Dyazide may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Increased urination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weakness
- A fever
- A flushed face
- Overactive reflexes
- Low blood pressure
- Electrolyte imbalance.
If you happen to overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
It should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The capsules should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep Dyazide and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Dyazide as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with normal dosing. Do not take a double dose.
Another medication combines hydrochlorothiazide and triamterene in a tablet form
(see Maxzide for more information).
Currently, both brand-name and generic Dyazide capsules are licensed for sale
(see Generic Dyazide for more information).
