Diuril (chlorothiazide) is a thiazide diuretic used to treat edema (swelling) caused by conditions such as congestive heart failure, renal impairment or liver cirrhosis. Diuril can also be used to help alleviate edema caused by corticosteroid use and estrogen therapy. Diuril is effective for the treatment of hypertension; a positive aspect of Diuril's effects on blood pressure is that it usually does not affect normal blood pressure.
General Side Effects
Because Diuril affects transport of sodium, chloride, potassium and bicarbonate in the renal tubules, serum blood levels of these electrolytes and metabolic buffers may be altered. Low sodium and potassium may occur as well as hypochloremic alkalosis (altered acid-base balance). The National Institute of Health (NIH) reports the following symptoms as warning signs of fluid, electrolyte or acid-based imbalance: dry mouth, thirst, generalized weakness and malaise, drowsiness, restlessness, confusion or seizures, muscle weakness, pains or cramps, low blood pressure, decreased urinary output, rapid heart rate and nausea and vomiting. Any of these symptoms should be reported to a health care provider.
Central Nervous System Effects
Diuril may cause dizziness, vertigo, headache, drowsiness, weakness, parasthesias (numbness and tingling) and fatigue.
Cardiovascular System Side Effects
According to the NIH low blood pressure is common with Diuril use, especially when changing positions from lying or sitting to standing. Chest pain and cardiac arrhythmias may also occur and should be reported to a health care provider immediately.
Dermatologic Side Effects
Some patients may experience rash, itching, photosensitivity or exfoliative dermatitis when taking Diuril.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Like most medications, Diuril can cause nausea, vomiting, dry mouth and decreased appetite. More serious complications include jaundice, hepatitis or pancreatitis.
Hematologic Side Effects
The NIH reports that Diuril may affect platelet and white blood cell production and function. Resulting conditions include thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), neutropenia and leukopenia (low white blood cell count).
Warnings
Diuril is a sulfonamide-derived drug so patients with sensitivity to thiazides or sulfonamides should not take Diuril. Patients should be under the direct supervision of a health care provider when taking Diuril as there are many potentially severe adverse effects and multiple drug interactions.
Patients should weigh themselves regularly and report weight changes to their physician. The occurrence of edema, shortness of breath, cough, chest discomfort or low blood pressure should be reported to a health care provider immediately.
References
- National Institute of Health Daily Med Sheets
- 2008 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide, Karch, A. M.
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