Overview

Diuretics help to lower blood pressure. This reduces your risk of a heart attack and stroke. It also reduces your risk of kidney disease.

Diuretics cause your kidneys to remove sodium and water. They also relax the blood vessel walls. These help lower your blood pressure.

Examples

• Chlorthalidone
• Hydrochlorothiazide

Possible side effects

There are some common side effects. They are:

• Too little potassium.
• Feeling dizzy.
• Rash.
• Urinating a lot.
• High blood sugar. (But this is not common.)

You may have other side effects. Check the information that comes with your medicine.

What to know about taking this medicine

• You may take other medicines for blood pressure. Diuretics can help those work better. They can also prevent extra fluid in your body.
• You may need to take potassium pills. Ask your doctor about this.
• You may need blood tests to check on your health. For example, you may have tests to check your kidneys and your potassium level.
• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Check with your doctor or pharmacist before you use any other medicines. This includes over-the-counter medicines. Make sure your doctor knows all of the medicines and natural health products you take. Taking some medicines together can cause problems.