Diuretics, “water pills”, are given to help reduce the amount of water in the body.  They work by acting on the kidneys to increase the flow of urine.  Some are also used to treat high blood pressure.  High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries.  If high blood pressure continues for a long time they may not function properly.  This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys resulting in a stroke, heart attack, or kidney failure.  These problems may be avoided if blood pressure is controlled.

Before starting this or any medications, your doctor should be told if you have had any allergic reaction to any diuretics, are sensitive to sulfur, preservatives, or dyes.  If you are pregnant or intend to be or are breast feeding.  Be sure to note any medical history you or blood related family members have and any other medications you take, including over the counter. 

Diuretics may cause you to have an unusual feeling of tiredness when you begin to take it.  You will also notice an increase in the amount of urine and frequency of urination.  After taking this medication for a while, these effects should lessen. 

For persons taking this medicine for high blood pressure, diet is important.  It may be a low salt diet.  Most people eat much more sodium than they need.  Too much sodium may increase blood pressure.  Some food contain large amounts of salt and include canned soup, pickles, ketchup, olives, hot-dogs, soy sauce, and carbonated beverages.  You may also need a reducing diet, excess weight adds to the problem, making the heart work harder to maintain a blood flow throughout the body.

Many persons who have high blood pressure will not notice any signs of the problem.  In fact, many may feel normal.  It is very important that you take your medications EXACTLY as directed and keep your doctor appointments even if you are feeling well.  This medicine will not cure your high blood pressure but it does help control it.  This is why you need to continue to take it if you expect to lower your pressure and keep it down.  You may have to take this  medication for the rest of your life.  If high blood pressure is left untreated it can cause serious problems as mentioned above. 

Potassium loss from your body is a common problem with diuretics.  You may have to eat or drink foods high in potassium, take a supplement, or another medicine to prevent the loss.  Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur especially when getting up from a sitting or lying position.. Getting up slowly may help.  You may become more sensitive to sunlight, avoid too much sun or use of tanning beds.  Potassium loss may cause dry mouth, increased thirst, irregular heartbeats, mood changes, cramps, nausea and vomiting, tiredness, and weak pulses.  These side effects usually go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine.  These signs are much more to occur in the elderly.  Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients.  If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor. 

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