Microzide
(hydrochlorothiazide)
Removes water from the body, which lowers blood pressure.
Our bottom line
Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)) is a well-tolerated water pill that's often the first-choice treatment for mild high blood pressure.
- Drug class: Cardiovascular
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (hydrochlorothiazide (hctz))
Upsides
- Does a good job getting rid of extra fluids in your body by making you urinate more.
- A first-choice blood pressure treatment. Works especially well for people of African descent.
- Lowers the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Good option if you have high blood pressure and heart failure.
- Most people have very few side effects from Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)).
- Can be good for patients with osteoporosis since it raises the body's level of calcium.
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What to expect from hydrochlorothiazide, on one page
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139Downsides
- Makes you urinate more often.
- Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)) doesn't work well in people with severe kidney problems.
- It can increase the risk of gout attacks in people with poor kidney function or a history of gout.
- People with a sulfa allergy may be allergic to Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)).
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What to expect from hydrochlorothiazide, on one page
Download Fact SheetMicrozide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)) is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that makes you urinate more. It works in the kidneys to remove extra water and certain electrolytes, while lowering blood pressure and reducing swelling.
- Drug class: Cardiovascular
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (hydrochlorothiazide (hctz))
Dosage forms
- Pill
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.- Kroger PharmacyGet free coupon$110.62
- Medicine ShoppeGet free coupon$115.82
What to expect when you take Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)) for High blood pressure
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Starts to kick inFull effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- More frequent urination
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Low potassium levels
- High blood sugar
- Rash
Side effect rates for Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ))
Risks and Warnings for Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ))
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › Current electrolyte imbalance
- › Lower kidney function
- › Dehydration
Taking too much Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)) can cause excessive urine production, which leads to dehydration and low levels of sodium, potassium, or magnesium. This can affect your heart and other muscles. Any current fluid or electrolyte imbalances should be corrected before using Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)). Make sure to stay hydrated while you're taking Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)).
Pharmacist Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this drug for?
This medication treats hypertension (high blood pressure).Common concerns from people taking Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ))
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?Research studies with animals haven’t found a risk to unborn babies, but it hasn’t been properly studied in humans.
Tip: Always talk with your doctor before you take any medication while pregnant.- Requires routine blood tests to check kidney function.