What Are the Side Effects of Dyazide?

What Are the Side Effects of Dyazide?
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Dyazide is a prescription drug composed of triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide that is used to treat high blood pressure. Dyazide works by changing the balance of sodium and potassium electrolytes in the body to lower blood pressure levels. The side effects of Dyazide are typically mild and not serious. Individuals with a history of kidney or liver problems should discuss potential side effects of Dyazide with a physician.

Dizziness

Lightheadedness and dizziness are mild side effects of Dyazide. Drug safety information provided by Drugs.com explains that dizziness is a common side effect of Dyazide that does not require medical attention. If dizziness symptoms persist or worsen with Dyazide treatment, individuals taking Dyazide should talk to their physician.

Nausea

Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are typically harmless side effects of Dyazide that occur as the body adjusts to taking the medicine. Such digestive related issues do not require immediate medical attention. People taking Dyazide that experience long-term nausea side effects should talk to a medical professional.

Hypotension

While Dyazide is prescribed to lower blood pressure, its use may cause blood pressure levels to become too low or hypotensive. Low blood pressure can be a dangerous condition as it can lead to irregular heart beat patterns or arrhythmias.

Kidney Failure

Renal failure is listed as a potential side effect of Dyazide by the Physician's Desk Reference at PDRHealth. One of the chemical components of Dyazide, triamterene, can combine with calcium to form kidney stones. Triamterene stones can produce symptoms typical of kidney stones, including kidney pain, urine discoloration and renal failure. Individuals using Dyazide should seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms of kidney stones such as abdominal pain and unusual urinary output. Patients with a history of kidney problems should alert a physician of such issues before beginning Dyazide therapy.

Hepatic Coma

Patients with limited liver function should avoid Dyazide, says Drugs.com. The minor alterations in potassium levels caused by Dyazide may cause liver failure in people with progressive liver disease.

Fluid Imbalance

Dyazide works by changing the balance of electrolytes in the body. While this usually has a beneficial effect for Dyazide users, electrolytes may become imbalanced and cause fluid retention or dehydration. Symptoms of electrolyte or fluid imbalance listed by MayoClinic.com and Drugs.com include muscle cramps, dry mouth, rapid heart rate, thirst, general weakness as well as restlessness. These side effects are not typically serious but should be brought to the attention of a doctor.

References

Article reviewed by Rachel Mattison Last updated on: May 30, 2010

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