Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) Drug Information

The prescription drug hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is used for treating several different conditions, including water retention and high blood pressure. It is part of a class of medicines called diuretics, which work by increasing the amount of salt and water that the kidneys remove from the blood.
 
Hydrochlorothiazide comes in the form of tablets and capsules. It is typically taken once a day. Some people need to take this drug on a daily basis, while others take it only when needed (which is common in people with water retention). Hydrochlorothiazide can be used in both adults and children with high blood pressure or fluid retention.
 
Before you start taking hydrochlorothiazide, be aware of the medication's specific uses, effects, dosing guidelines, and warnings to help minimize risks during the treatment process.
 
(Click Hydrochlorothiazide for more information about this drug, including how it works, what side effects to look out for during treatment, and what you should discuss with your healthcare provider before taking the diuretic.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD