MODURETIC (AMILORIDE/HCTZ)

Description of Moduretic

Moduretic is a combination of 2 drugs prescribed for treating hypertension or for those that have congestive heart failure and develop hypokalemia (low potassium levels) as a result of taking diuretics alone. Amiloride is called a potassium-sparing diuretic and HCTZ stands for hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic with antihypertensive properties.

Diuretics are also referred to as water pills because they are prescribed to remove excess fluid in your body that causes swelling. Moduretic or generic Amiloride/HCTZ can help remove the water build-up without causing you to lose too much potassium. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Moduretic Decreases Excess Fluid in Your Body

When taken as directed, Amiloride works to make your kidneys pass extra fluid by interfering with the salt and water that is transported across certain cells in your kidneys. This results in less fluid in your bloodstream, so any fluid that builds up in your lung tissues or your body is taken up in your bloodstream to replace the lost fluid. While doing this, your kidneys are able to retain potassium as Amiloride blocks the channels potassium would pass from. HCTZ inhibits the reabsorption of sodium and chloride ions, and is excreted with excess fluid. These actions will reduce blood pressure without losing potassium.

Other Conditions Moduretic Can Help With

Moduretic can also benefit those with nephrotic syndrome, a kidney disorder caused by small damaged blood vessels in your kidneys that usually filter waste and surplus fluid. This causes edema in your feet and ankles and can increase your risk of other health issues. Heart failure can result in a fluid build-up in your lungs and make breathing difficult or liver disease occurs and fluid settles in your abdominal cavity so you may be asked to take Moduretic as well.

Before Moduretic is Prescribed

Ask your doctor if there are any risks of taking Moduretic while you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Discuss any existing medical conditions or allergies with your doctor and list other OTC and Rx meds you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements. Your doctor can then determine if Moduretic is safe for you to take.

Moduretic Precautions

You should not start, stop, or alter the dosage of any drugs you are taking while on Moduretic as this can increase your risk of serious side effects. Until you know how your body will react to Moduretic, do not drive, operate machinery, or attempt any activity that may be considered unsafe if you are not alert. Keep Moduretic and all other medications out of children’s reach. Monitor your blood sugar if you are diabetic due to the effects of Moduretic.

Possible Side Effects of Moduretic

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Constipation
• Sensitivity to sunlight