Maxzide

Maxzide is a drug commonly prescribed to treat fluid retention and high blood pressure. The medicine is a diuretic, which means it causes more salt and water to be removed from the blood. This decreases blood volume, which, in turn, causes a drop in blood pressure. Maxzide comes in tablet form, and is typically taken once a day. Side effects can include low or high blood sugar, nausea, and constipation.

 

What Is Maxzide?

Maxzide® (triamterene-HCTZ) is a prescription medicine that is used as a diuretic for high blood pressure and fluid retention. It is a combination of two diuretic medications: triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ).
 

Who Makes Maxzide?

Maxzide is made by Mylan Pharmaceuticals. Generic Maxzide is made by several manufacturers.
 

What Is Maxzide Used For?

Specific uses of Maxzide can include:
 
(Click Maxzide Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

How Does Maxzide Work?

Maxzide is a diuretic.
 These drugs are commonly referred to as "water pills." Maxzide contains two diuretics that work together to keep electrolyte levels in balance. Hydrochlorothiazide, while effective, often causes low potassium levels in the blood. On the other hand, triamterene is a "potassium-sparing" diuretic, meaning that it can actually increase potassium levels in the blood. When taken together, these medications balance each other out.
 
Maxzide works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. The extra salt and water are passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, Maxzide causes a decrease in blood volume. Because of this effect, the medication can lower blood pressure and can also help with water retention.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;