HCTZ - Water Pills - Hydrochlorothiazide - Diuretics, Comes in oral capsules (12.5 mg), oral tablets ( 12.5 m; 25 mg; 50 mg)

Drug class: Thiazide diuretics. HCTZ dosing information : Adult dose of HCTZ is usually between 12.5 mg and 100 mg orally once or twice a day. 

HCTZ USES : HCTZ is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that helps prevent your body from absorbing too much salt, which can cause fluid retention. HCTZ also known as "water pill," and is   the oldest and most affordable class of medication to treat high blood pressure. HCTZ is also used to treat fluid retention (edema) in people with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, or kidney disorders, or edema caused by taking steroids or estrogen to treat menopause

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What happens if You miss a dose : Take HCTZ as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. DO NOT TAKE TWO DOSES AT ONE TIME.

What happens if I overdose ? Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222

What should You avoid while taking HCTZ ? 

HCTZ is some times used in assisting with weight loss.

Warnings

You should not use HCTZ if you are allergic to hydrochlorothiazide or if you are unable to urinate.

Before using HCTZ, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, glaucoma, asthma or allergies, gout, diabetes, or if you are allergic to sulfa drugs or penicillin.

Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of HCTZ.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink. In some cases, drinking too much liquid can be as unsafe as not drinking enough.

There are many other drugs that can interact with HCTZ. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to any healthcare provider who treats you.

If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using HCTZ even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Not surprisingly, frequent urination is one of the most common side effects of taking water pills. 

Dizziness, fatigue, gastrointestinal disorders, and muscle cramps are possible side effects. Erectile dysfunction can strike men at any time.