Amizide

Amizide Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Amizide is a brand name. Its generic name is Hydrochlorothiazide + Amiloride.

Introduction

Hydrochlorothiazide and Amiloride (HCTZ/AML) is a combination medication, used to treat high blood pressure and swelling caused by congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, or kidney disorders. It is also used to reduce the risk of stroke in certain people with high blood pressure.

Uses For

Hydrochlorothiazide and Amiloride (HCTZ/AML) is typically used to control high blood pressure. It is also used to reduce the risk of stroke in certain people with high blood pressure. Additionally, it can be prescribed to patients with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, or kidney disorders to reduce excess fluid in the body.

Mechanism of Action

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a diuretic (water pill) that works by blocking the reabsorption of salt and fluid in the kidneys. This decreases the pressure inside the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely and reducing the workload of the heart. Amiloride (AML) is a potassium-sparing diuretic that acts to reduce the amount of sodium and chloride reabsorbed in the distal convoluted tubule in the kidneys. This allows for more potassium to be excreted while retaining the balance of electrolytes in the body and preventing unwanted fluid retention.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

HCTZ/AML usually takes a few days to become effective. It often takes several weeks before the full effects of the drug can be felt.

Absorption

HCTZ/AML is absorbed quickly after oral administration. The peak concentration occurs within about 4 hours and declines quickly thereafter.

Route of Elimination

HCTZ/AML is largely eliminated through the kidneys. It is estimated that 80-90% of the drug is excreted by the kidneys, either as the unchanged drug or as metabolites. The remaining 10-20% is excreted in the bile, feces, and sweat.

Dosage

Hydrochlorothiazide and Amiloride (HCTZ/AML) is available as a 5/50 mg tablet. The usual dosage range is 0.5-2 tablets once a day or divided into two smaller doses per day. The dose should be adjusted to individual needs.

Administration

Hydrochlorothiazide and Amiloride (HCTZ/AML) should be taken orally, with or without food. Patients should take the medication regularly and at the same time each day to maintain an even level of the drug in the body.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of HCTZ/AML include: dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, upset stomach, and blurred vision.

Toxicity

The toxic effects of HCTZ/AML are usually mild and reversible with prompt medical attention. If the drug is taken in large doses, the patient may experience dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or kidney failure.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any kidney or liver disorders before using HCTZ/AML. This medication can cause serious side effects including dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney failure. It is important to take this medication regularly and exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of serious side effects.

Interactions

HCTZ/AML should not be taken with lithium, oral antidiabetic agents, potassium-sparing diuretic drugs (such as triamterene), or corticosteroids. If other medications are taken while taking HCTZ/AML, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Disease Interactions

HCTZ/AML should not be used if you have kidney disease, liver disease, gout, or an electrolyte imbalance. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions before starting this medication.

Drug Interactions

HCTZ/AML may interact with lithium, oral antidiabetics, potassium-sparing diuretic drugs, and corticosteroids. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Food Interactions

HCTZ/AML should be taken with food to avoid an upset stomach. This medication may increase the effects of alcohol consumption.

Pregnancy Use

HCTZ/AML should not be used during pregnancy due to the potential for serious side effects. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should seek medical advice before taking this medication.

Lactation Use

HCTZ/AML should not be used while breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding, you should seek medical advice before taking this medication.

Acute Overdose

If an overdose of HCTZ/AML is suspected, seek medical help immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.

Contraindication

HCTZ/AML should not be used if you have kidney disease, liver disease, gout, or an electrolyte imbalance. It is also contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Use Directions

HCTZ/AML should be taken orally, with or without food, at the same time every day. The dosage should be adjusted to individual needs and should not exceed the maximum dosage of 8 tablets per day.

Storage Conditions

Hydrochlorothiazide and Amiloride (HCTZ/AML) should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. It should also be kept out of the reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

It is estimated that the total volume of distribution of Hydrochlorothiazide and Amiloride (HCTZ/AML) is approximately 0.8 L/kg.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of Hydrochlorothiazide and Amiloride (HCTZ/AML) is approximately 8 hours.

Clearance

The mean total body clearance of HCTZ/AML is approximately 11.2 L/h/kg.

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