Discharge Instructions: Taking Diuretics

Your doctor prescribed a type of medicine called a diuretic for you. Diuretics help reduce the amount of water in the body. They make you urinate more frequently, flushing water and salts from your body. Diuretics are a treatment for high blood pressure (hypertension) and other conditions.

Home care

• Follow the fact sheet that came with your medicine. It tells you when and how to take your medicine. Ask for a sheet if you didn’t get one.

• Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies or over-the-counter drugs.

• Plan your activities in advance until you know how this drug affects you.

• Take your diuretic in the morning. This drug makes you urinate more. If you take it in the morning, you may not need to use the bathroom during the night. That way, the medicine won’t interfere with a good night’s sleep.

• Take your medicine exactly as directed, even if you feel fine.

• Learn to take your own pulse. Keep a record of your results. Ask your doctor which readings mean that you need medical attention.

Possible side effects

Tell your doctor if you have any of these side effects. Don’t stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to. Mild side effects include the following:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Headache

• Loss of appetite

• Diarrhea

• Increased sensitivity to light

• Nervousness

• Stomach cramps with mild pain