DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Propranolol

March 21, 2017

Propranolol Hydrochloride, Hydrochlorothiazide Oral tablet

What is this medicine?

HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE; PROPRANOLOL (hye droe klor oh THYE a zide; proe PRAN oh lole) is a combination of a diuretic and a beta-blocker. It is used to treat high blood pressure.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • circulation problems, or blood vessel disease

  • decreased urine

  • diabetes

  • gout

  • heart disease

  • immune system problems

  • kidney disease

  • liver disease

  • lung or breathing disease, like asthma

  • pheochromocytoma

  • thyroid disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to this hydrochlorothiazide, propranolol, sulfa drugs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • aluminum hydroxide gel

  • antipyrine

  • barbiturates like phenobarbital

  • chlorpromazine

  • cimetidine

  • haloperidol

  • lidocaine

  • lithium

  • medicines for diabetes

  • medicines that relax muscles for surgery

  • NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen

  • phenytoin

  • reserpine

  • rifampin

  • steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

  • theophylline

  • thyroid medicines

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Contact your doctor right away if your symptoms worsen. Check your blood pressure and pulse rate regularly. Ask your health care professional what your blood pressure and pulse rate should be, and when you should contact them.

Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly. This could lead to serious heart-related effects.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

This medicine can affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this medicine without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients may increase your blood pressure.

Check with your doctor or health care professional if you get an attack of severe diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, or if you sweat a lot. The loss of too much body fluid can make it dangerous for you to take this medicine.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions such as skin rash or itching, hives, swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat

  • breathing problems

  • changes in vision

  • chest pain

  • eye pain

  • fast or irregular heartbeat

  • feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

  • gout attack

  • increased hunger or thirst

  • increased urination

  • muscle pain or cramps

  • pain or difficulty when passing urine

  • pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet

  • redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

  • slow heart rate

  • swelling of the legs and ankles

  • unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • change in sex drive or performance

  • diarrhea

  • dry mouth

  • hair loss

  • headache

  • stomach upset

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture, freezing, and excessive heat. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert