Dyazide

Dyazide is a combination drug that is used for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) and fluid retention (edema). Dyazide medication is composed of two drugs: hydrochlorothiazide and triamterene. Both components are diuretics, or water pills, that prevent fluid retention. Triamterene also works to stabilize potassium levels in the blood. The same combination drug is available under the brand name Maxzide. Your doctor can advise you of the benefits of Dyazide vs. Maxzide, and help you decide which medication is right for you. Dyazide is commonly available in 25 mg and 50 mg dosages.

Side effects of Dyazide may include nausea, headache, and stomach pain. More serious Dyazide side effects include irregular heartbeat, sudden decrease in urination, and numbness. Any major side effects or allergic reactions to Dyazide should be immediately treated by a doctor. Dyazide is a class "C" drug, so women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take it without discussing the risks with their doctor. Patients with certain medical conditions such as kidney disease, Addison's disease, or high potassium levels should not take Dyazide. Dyazide is also not recommended for children. Discuss all your medical conditions with your doctor before taking Dyazide, as common conditions like diabetes may require your doctor to prescribe a lower dosage and monitor your condition more carefully. Diabetic patients may also need to monitor their blood sugar levels more closely, to guard against hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar levels. You should also inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking, as taking even common over the counter drugs such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be contraindicated, or advised against, while you are taking Dyazide. This includes vitamin and mineral supplements, especially potassium supplements, and any herbal remedies you may be taking.

You should not purchase Dyazide without a prescription, as it is important to only take Dyazide under a doctor's care. Dyazide must be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and you should not change your dosage or stop taking Dyazide without consulting your doctor. This is not only because of the side effects and interactions listed above, but also to prevent overdose. Symptoms of a Dyazide overdose may include fever, nausea, and vomiting. Any symptoms of overdose that you experience should not be ignored, as renal failure or electrolyte imbalance, especially potassium imbalance, may result if the overdose is left untreated. Another possible complication of a Dyazide overdose is hypotension, or low blood pressure. All of these conditions are extremely serious and require immediate medical treatment.