ALDACTAZIDE (SPIRONOLACTONE/HCTZ)

Aldactazide Description

Aldactazide combines Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic with a stronger diuretic known as Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). This medication can be prescribed to decrease fluid build-up caused by heart failure, high blood pressure, cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome (kidney disease) and certain cancers without losing too much potassium.

Spironolactone on its own is a weak diuretic so it cannot remove a lot of fluid from your body; but when paired with HCTZ, it is enough to decrease the amount of fluid while keeping the right amount of potassium in your blood.

Aldactazide Reduces Excess Fluid Without Disturbing Potassium Levels

When taken as directed, Aldactazide or generic Spironolactone/HCTZ blocks the activity of a hormone called aldosterone. This causes your kidneys to pass more fluid out of your body without lowering your potassium levels as the channels to this important nutrient are blocked. Your body needs potassium to enable your organs, tissues, and cells to work properly. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Potassium is essential for muscle growth, nerve cell function, and the production of proteins. Your body’s fluid levels are regulated by potassium which is why Aldactazide is efficient at lowering your blood pressure because it stops the fluid build-up that can cause higher pressure in your arteries that make your heart work harder.

Conditions Treated by Aldactazide

Ascites is an accumulation of ascetic fluid in your abdomen that is usually a result of severe scarring of your liver (cirrhosis) caused by long-time consumption of alcohol or viral hepatitis. There are many disorders that can cause ascites; the most common one is called portal hypertension from cirrhosis. This is when the pressure in the portal vein remains high as it transports blood to your liver. The ascetic fluid leaks from the surface of your liver and intestine and accumulates in your abdomen.

Sometimes a diet low in sodium and bed rest can help eliminate the fluid so you are more comfortable and can breathe easier. If this fails, you may be prescribed Aldactazide as a method of treatment because there is no cure for cirrhosis, heart failure, kidney disease, or hypertension and certain cancers.

Before You Take Aldactazide

Ask your doctor if Aldactazide is safe to take while pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or if you are breast feeding. Tell your doctor about other medical conditions or allergies you have and any OTC or Rx medications you are taking as adding Aldactazide could cause adverse side effects or alter its efficacy. All medications should be stored out of children’s reach and never shared with anyone else.

Aldactazide Precautions and Proper Use

Until you know how Aldactazide will affect you, avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing any tasks that are considered unsafe. Aldactazide increases your urine output so take it a few hours before bed-time so your sleep is not interrupted as often by having to go to the restroom. It’s important to keep all doctor and lab appointments to track your progress while taking Aldactazide.

Possible Side Effects of Aldactazide

• Changes in menstrual cycle
• Upset stomach
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Dizziness
• Headache