#14: hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) | Edema, Hypertension, Calcium Nephrolithiasis Prevention, and Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that goes by the brand name Microzide. The way this drug works is through the inhibition of sodium reabsorption in the distal tubules of the kidneys. The drug is most commonly used in the treatment of Edema but has other pharmacological uses. Typical edema treatment dosing is initiated at 25-100 mg po qd divided into 1-2 doses. Thiazide diuretics are not the preferred diuretic for edema but does have its place in therapy. There is a concern in patients with sulfonamide-derived drug allergies but this is often challenged.  The drug is excreted in the urine with ~60% as unchanged drug. Common side effects are orthostatic hypotension, diarrhea, dizziness, and headache. Substances such as alcohol may enhance orthostatic hypotension. Blood pressure, sodium, potassium and BUN should be monitored while patients are on this drug.  Go to DrugCardsDaily.com for episode show notes which consist of the drug summary, quiz, and link to the drug card for FREE! Please SUBSCRIBE, FOLLOW, and RATE on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever your favorite place to listen to podcasts are. The main goal is to go over the Top 200 Drugs with the occasional drug of interest. Also, if you’d like to say hello, suggest a drug, or leave some feedback I’d really appreciate hearing from you! Leave a voice message at anchor.fm/drugcardsdaily or find me on twitter @drugcardsdaily