Aldactazide

Generic name: Spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide

What is Aldactazide?

Aldactazide is used in the treatment of high blood pressure and other conditions that require the elimination of excess fluid from the body. These conditions include congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, and kidney disease. Aldactazide combines two diuretic drugs that help your body produce and eliminate more urine.

What is the most important information I should know about Aldactazide?

If you have high blood pressure, you must take Aldactazide regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Aldactazide; and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Aldactazide does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.

Drugs such as the hydrochlorothiazide component of Aldactazide have been known to trigger gout and allergic reactions. They can also raise your blood sugar levels.

Who should not take Aldactazide?

Do not take Aldactazide if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Also, do not take this drug if you have kidney disease or liver failure, have difficulty urinating or are unable to urinate, or have high potassium levels in your blood.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Aldactazide?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Aldactazide. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver problems, or lupus erythematosus (a disease that causes skin eruptions). Your doctor should know if you are going to have surgery or dental work while on Aldactazide.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Edema (Water Retention)

Adults: The usual dosage is 100 milligrams (mg) each of spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide daily, taken as a single dose or in divided doses. Dosage may range from 25 mg to 200 mg of each ingredient daily, depending on individual needs.

High Blood Pressure

Adults: The usual dose is 50 mg to 100 mg each of spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide daily, in a single dose or divided into smaller doses.

What should I avoid while taking Aldactazide?

Avoid abruptly stopping Aldactazide, as it may cause your condition to worsen. Also avoid potassium supplements and foods containing high levels of potassium including salt substitutes.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Aldactazide?

If Aldactazide is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Aldactazide with ACE-inhibitor blood pressure drugs, alcohol, gout medications, barbiturates, digoxin, diuretics, insulin or oral antidiabetic drugs, lithium, narcotic drugs such as those containing codeine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, norepinephrine, potassium supplements, and steroids such as prednisone.

What are the possible side effects of Aldactazide?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: breast development in males, deepening of the voice, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, excessive hairiness, fever, headache, hives, irregular menstruation, lack of coordination, loss of appetite, mental confusion, muscle spasms, nausea, postmenopausal bleeding, rash, red or purple spots on skin, restlessness, sensitivity to light, severe allergic reaction, sexual dysfunction, sluggishness, stomach bleeding, stomach ulcers, tingling or pins and needles, vomiting, weakness, yellow eyes and skin

Symptoms of a change in potassium levels: dry mouth, excessive thirst, weak or irregular heartbeat, muscle pain or cramps

Can I receive Aldactazide if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Aldactazide during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Talk with your doctor before taking this drug if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Aldactazide?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Aldactazide?

Store at room temperature.