Indapamide

What is Indapamide?

Indapamide is a medication used alone or with other drugs to lower blood pressure. It works by helping your body to form and excrete urine. Indapamide is also used to reduce salt and water retention in people who have congestive heart failure

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

Indapamide can reduce the blood levels of two important electrolytes, sodium and potassium. Signs and symptoms of this include dry mouth, thirst, weakness, fatigue, drowsiness, restlessness, muscle pains or cramps, low blood pressure, less urination than normal, fast heart rate, and abdominal pains. Indapamide can also increase the levels of calcium and decrease the levels of phosphorus in your blood. You may have an increased risk of developing low potassium while taking indapamide if you have liver disease, are taking large doses of indapamide, or are also taking medications called corticosteroids.

Indapamide should not be taken with lithium unless your doctor specifically instructs you to.

Indapamide may increase your chances of developing gout, especially if you are susceptible or have had gout in the past.

Indapamide can increase your blood sugar. If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar frequently.

Indapamide can activate lupus erythematosus in patients who are susceptible.

Who should not take Indapamide?

You should not take indapamide if you do not produce urine, or if you are allergic or sensitive to indapamide or other sulfonamide-derived medications.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with indapamide. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have diabetes, gout, kidney or liver problems, or lupus. You should also tell your doctor if you are dehydrated due to illness (vomiting or diarrhea) or any other cause.

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 Caused by Congestive Heart Failure

Adults: The usual starting dose is 2.5 milligrams (mg) taken once daily. After 1 week, your doctor may increase your dose to 5 mg once daily.

High Blood Pressure

The usual starting dose is 1.25 milligrams (mg) taken once daily. After 4 weeks, your doctor may increase your dose to 2.5 mg once daily. After another 4 weeks, if your blood pressure has not been lowered enough, your doctor may increase your dose to 5 mg once daily.

How should I take Indapamide?

Indapamide should be taken in the morning at the same time every day.

What should I avoid while taking Indapamide?

You should avoid becoming dehydrated while taking indapamide, as this may cause the electrolytes in your blood to become depleted, leading to potentially serious side effects.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Indapamide?

If indapamide 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 indapamide with the following: lithium, other medications that lower your blood pressure, and norepinephrine.

What are the possible side effects of Indapamide?

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: headache, infection, pain, back pain, dizziness, runny nose, fatigue, weakness, muscle cramps or spasms, numbness of hands, feet, legs, or arms, nervousness, tension, anxiety, irritability, agitation, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, indigestion, cough

Can I receive Indapamide if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of indapamide during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been adequately studied. Indapamide should only be used during pregnancy if deemed medically necessary, as it may cause liver or blood problems in an unborn baby. It is not known if indapamide is excreted in breast milk. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

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

Skip the dose you missed and then return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Indapamide?

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container away from heat.