Effects of Hydrochlorothiazide

The medication hydrochlorothiazide (

HCTZ) is approved for treating high blood pressure and water retention. It is a diuretic ("water pill") that is available by prescription only. Several studies have looked at the specific effects of the drug:

Hydrochlorothiazide for High Blood Pressure

Based on clinical studies, hydrochlorothiazide has been shown to significantly lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, the medicine can also decrease the risk of developing health problems (such as a stroke, heart disease, or congestive heart failure) that occur with long-term high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure).

Hydrochlorothiazide for Water Retention

Hydrochlorothiazide can help with water retention by helping the body get rid of the extra fluid. The drug is approved to treat water retention (edema) when used along with other medications, including other congestive heart failure medications.

(Click Hydrochlorothiazide to learn more about hydrochlorothiazide and its effects, to find out how this medication works, and for information about various warnings associated with diuretics.)