Triamterene with Hydrochlorothiazide (Dyazide)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Triamterene with HCTZ is a diuretic or "water pill" It reduces the amount of water and sodium retained by the body. It is used to lower blood pressure and to treat edema or fluid retention. Take this drug with food or milk to minimize stomach upset.
Side Effects
This drug may cause dizziness or blurred vision. The drug may cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness and drowsiness the first few days as your body adjust to the medication. The drug may cause an increased sensitivity to the sun. Inform your physician if you develop muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, tingling of the hands and feet, easy bleeding or bruising, breathing difficulties or difficulty urinating.
Drug Interactions
If you are using this medicine for high blood pressure, avoid drugs that increase your heart rate or make you excited like decongestants because it may counteract the blood pressure effect. Decongestants are commonly found in over the counter cold preprations.
Cautions and Contraindications
Because this drug changes your fluid balance, you may feel dizzy if you change from a lying to a standing position too rapidly. Avoid this by sitting up a few minutes before rising. Also avoid dringing alcohol which will aggravate these effects.
Usual Dose
The usual dose is one tablet daily.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.