Common Use

Microzide is a moderate thiazide diuretic medication that reduces the reabsorption of sodium (Na+) at the cortical limb of Henle's loop, without affecting the medullary segment of the kidney. This results in a weaker diuretic effect compared to Lasix. Microzide is primarily used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention (edema of various origins). The exact mechanism of its blood pressure-lowering effect is not fully understood.

Dosage and Direction

Microzide can be taken with or without food. The dosage depends on your medical condition, age, and weight, and should be determined by your doctor. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for proper use.

Precautions

• Avoid alcohol consumption.
• Prevent overheating or dehydration during exercise, workouts, or in hot weather.
• Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, asthma, allergies, gout, diabetes, or a sulfa drug allergy.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to Microzide or its components.
• Diabetes.
• Chronic kidney failure.
• Anuria.
• Severe liver failure.
• Addison's disease.
• First trimester of pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding.
• Infancy (younger than 3 years).

Possible Side Effects

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience weakness, low blood pressure, light sensitivity, impotence, nausea, abdominal pain, electrolyte imbalances, pancreatitis, jaundice, anaphylaxis, or rashes. Patients allergic to sulfa drugs may also be allergic to Microzide. Note that Microzide can worsen kidney dysfunction and lower potassium, sodium, and magnesium levels, potentially leading to heart rhythm abnormalities. Potassium supplementation is often recommended to prevent low potassium levels.

Drug Interactions

• Combining Microzide with ethanol, barbiturates, or opioid analgesics increases the risk of hypotension.
• Microzide may require adjustments in insulin or other blood sugar-lowering medications.
• It reduces the kidney's elimination of lithium.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may lessen Microzide's blood pressure-lowering effects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Overdose

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience nausea, weakness, dizziness, dry mouth, thirst, or muscle pain or weakness, as these may indicate an overdose.

Storage

Store Microzide at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in a light-resistant container, away from moisture.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of Microzide and does not cover all directions, potential drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. We disclaim any liability for the reliability or accuracy of this information and are not responsible for any damages resulting from its use or consequences of self-treatment.