Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
INDAPAMIDE - ORAL
(in-DAP-uh-mide)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Lozol
Uses
Indapamide is a "water pill" (diuretic) used to treat excess body water (edema) and high blood pressure. It works by decreasing the amount of water in the body by increasing urination.
How To Use
Because this medication increases urination, it is best taken early in the day. This mediation may be taken with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. This medication may reduce the potassium levels in your blood. It is advisable to eat foods or drink liquids high in potassium such as citrus juices, bananas, tomatoes, melons, and raisins to help prevent low potassium. Salt substitutes contain potassium and may be beneficial. Sometimes a potassium supplement medication will be prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effects
This medication may cause dizziness or lightheadedness especially during the first few days as your body adjusts to it. Rise slowly from a seated or lying position to minimize dizziness. Blurred vision, loss of appetite, stomach upset, headache and weakness may also occur. Inform your doctor if any of these effects persist or worsen. Inform you doctor if your develop any of the following symptoms (possible signs of low potassium levels): muscle cramps, pain, nausea, vomiting. In the unlikely event an allergic reaction to this drug occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Before you take indapamide, tell your doctor your medical history, especially: heart rhythm problems, vitamin/ mineral (electrolyte) imbalances, diabetes, gout, kidney, thyroid or parathyroid problems, liver disease, urinary problems, SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), any allergies (especially drug allergies). Before using indapamide, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known if indapamide is excreted into breast milk. Though there have been no reports (to date) of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: lithium, cisapride, digoxin, other drugs used for blood pressure, cholestyramine/colestipol, diazoxide, diabetes medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and weakness.
Notes
Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.
Missed Dose
Take any missed dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not "double up" the dose.
Storage
Store at room temperature and keep away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.