- Class
- Diuretics
- Body system
- Cardiovascular
- Brand names
- Microzide
What is Hydrochlorothiazide used for?
- Hypertension
- Edema
How Hydrochlorothiazide works
Thiazide diuretic: blocks sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal tubule.
Common side effects
- Hypokalemia and hyponatremia
- Hypercalcemia
- Hyperglycemia
- Hyperuricemia (gout flares)
- Photosensitivity
Report right away
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Painful swollen joint (gout)
- Severe dizziness
Nursing considerations for Hydrochlorothiazide
- Monitor potassium, sodium, calcium, glucose and uric acid.
- Less effective when kidney function is poor.
- Check for a sulfonamide allergy listed in the chart and follow the label's precautions.
Patient teaching
- Take in the morning.
- Use sunscreen.
- Diabetic patients: check blood glucose more often when starting.
This card does not list doses. Use the prescriber's order, the product label and a current drug reference for dosing, and follow your facility's policies.
Diuretics practice questions
NCLEX-style questions on the class Hydrochlorothiazide belongs to.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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A patient takes furosemide and digoxin. Which lab result is most important before giving both?
Show answer
Answer B: Potassium 3.1 mEq/L Hypokalemia from the loop diuretic increases the risk of digoxin toxicity. A potassium of 3.1 is low and should be reported.
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Which diuretic requires the patient to avoid salt substitutes?
Show answer
Answer B: Spironolactone Spironolactone is potassium-sparing. Salt substitutes contain potassium chloride and can cause hyperkalemia.
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What is the most accurate way to evaluate a diuretic's effect on fluid status at home?
Show answer
Answer B: Daily weight at the same time each day Daily weight is the most reliable indicator of fluid gain or loss: 1 kg is about 1 liter of fluid.
Frequently asked questions
What is Hydrochlorothiazide used for?
Hypertension; Edema.
What drug class is Hydrochlorothiazide?
Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) belongs to the class diuretics. Thiazide diuretic: blocks sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal tubule.
What are the nursing considerations for Hydrochlorothiazide?
Monitor potassium, sodium, calcium, glucose and uric acid. Less effective when kidney function is poor.
What should patients report while taking Hydrochlorothiazide?
muscle weakness or cramps; painful swollen joint (gout); severe dizziness.