Altexide Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (THIGH-uh-zide/SPY-row-no-lack-tone)
Altexide Oral Uses
This product is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This product is also used to treat swelling/water retention (edema), which can result from conditions such as heart failure, severe liver disease, or severe kidney disease. Reducing swelling/water retention can help to improve symptoms such as trouble breathing.
This product contains two medications, spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide. Both are water pills (diuretics) that work by increasing the amount of urine that you make. This causes your body to get rid of extra salt and water, which is thought to help relax the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily. Spironolactone also blocks the activity of a certain natural substance made by your body (aldosterone) that may contribute to swelling/fluid retention in certain conditions.
How To Use Altexide Oral
See also the Warning and Drug Interactions sections.
Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, you may take it with food or milk.
It is best to avoid taking this medication within 4 hours of your bedtime to avoid having to get up to urinate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your dosing schedule.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition and response to therapy. If you have severe liver or kidney problems, your dosage may need to be adjusted.
Cholestyramine and colestipol may decrease the absorption of this medication. If you are taking either of these drugs, separate them from this medication by at least 4 hours.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. It may take up to several weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.
Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
Inform your doctor if your condition worsens (e.g., your routine blood pressure readings increase).
