Chlorthalidone is used to treat high blood pressure. In combination with other drugs, it can also be used to treat water retention caused by medications or by problems such as heart failure or kidney or liver disease.
What is Chlorthalidone?
Chlorthalidone acts by increasing the elimination of sodium and potassium in the urine. In this way, it promotes the removal of greater amounts of water.
How should Chlorthalidone be taken?
Chlorthalidone is taken orally in the form of tablets. In some cases, a potassium supplement is matched to the same prescription.
Side effects associated with Chlorthalidone
Chlorthalidone may increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun. Among the other possible adverse effects are included:
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Feeling faint or lightheaded, especially when you get up or you are standing
You should immediately contact a doctor if taking Chlorthalidone triggers any of the following symptoms:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Impotence
- Inflammation of the pancreas
- Muscle pain or cramps
- Nausea
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Restlessness
- Unusual thirst
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Vomiting
- Jaundice
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Chlorthalidone
Chlorthalidone should not be taken if you are unable to urinate.
The treatment can compromise the ability to drive and operate hazardous machinery, especially if it is taken together with alcohol or other drugs. In addition, the dizziness associated with its intake can be aggravated by high temperatures, physical activity and fever.
Lastly, before you start taking Chlorthalidone, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or other drugs (particularly to thiazides or sulfonamides) or food
- You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, citing in particular diazoxide, digitalis glycosides, or lithium ketanserin
- You suffer (or have suffered) from gout, low blood levels of potassium or sodium, kidney disease, lupus, allergy or bronchial asthma
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
