Hydrochlorothiazide & Supplements

Hydrochlorothiazide is a prescription medication classified as a thiazide diuretic. It is used for the treatment of mild to moderate high blood pressure and fluid retention in congestive heart failure. The medication works by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing sodium and leads to the release of excess sodium and water. Although the medication is effective, it may cause adverse reactions and drug interactions. Discuss any concerns with your physician or pharmacist.

Blood Pressure

Hydrochlorothiazide is used to lower blood pressure, but it may not work properly if taken with herbal supplements that have hypertensive effects, meaning that they raise the blood pressure. According to the "Drug Information Handbook," ephedra, ginseng and yohimbe can worsen hypertension and lower the effects of the medication. Herbal supplements that lower the blood pressure increase the effects of the medication and may lead to very low pressure. Garlic supplements have antihypertensive effects and can cause headache, weakness, dizziness and lightheadedness. If you develop these side effects, contact your physician right away.

Side Effects

Patients on hydrochlorothiazide should avoid exposure to the sun because it makes their skin sensitive and causes it to burn easily. About 10 percent of individuals on the drug may develop photosensitivity, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Dong quai may also cause the skin to be sensitive to the sun and can increase the effect of this adverse reaction.

Hydrochlorothiazide may also cause hypokalemia, which is a low potassium level. If the patient has low potassium before starting the medication, he may become depleted of potassium. A very low level of potassium can be life threatening. Symptoms include fatigue, muscle weakness or spasms, abnormal heart rhythms and paralysis.

Prevention

Always speak with your physician before you start any medication, including herbal products, to avoid interactions. If you develop side effects, contact a health care professional who can determine if it is serious, especially if you develop symptoms of hypokalemia. Avoid the use of herbal supplements if you are using hydrochlorothiazide because many of them affect the blood pressure.

Monitoring

Your physician can monitor your blood pressure on a regular basis to ensure that the medication is working properly. Potassium levels can be monitored by a blood test. If the levels are too low, your physician can correct these with potassium supplements. Once potassium reaches a normal level, you can be placed on the drug and then monitored regularly. It is important that you do not skip appointments with your physician.