Aldactazide (Spironolactone/Hctz)

Do’s

• Take Aldactazide exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, with or without food, usually once or twice daily.
• Take the medication at least 4 hours before bedtime to avoid needing to urinate at night.
• Take Aldactazide regularly at the same time(s) each day for maximum benefit.
• Continue taking this medication even if you feel well, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms.
• If you take cholesterol-lowering medications (bile acid-binding resins), separate them from Aldactazide by at least 4 hours.
• Discuss any concerns about your condition or worsening symptoms with your healthcare provider.

Don'ts

• Take Aldactazide differently than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Skip doses or stop taking Aldactazide abruptly.
• Take more Aldactazide than prescribed.
• Hesitate to ask your healthcare provider about when to take the medication.

Common side effects of Aldactazide may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Muscle cramps
• Weakness
• Dry mouth
• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Skin rash or itching

Serious side effects of Aldactazide are rare but may include:

• Signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, such as extreme thirst, muscle cramps, weakness, vomiting, fast heartbeat, severe dizziness, confusion, fainting, or seizures
• High potassium levels (hyperkalemia), which may cause symptoms like muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat, or numb/tingling skin
• Signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as abdominal cramps, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting, swelling of the face and throat, or rash
• Signs of liver problems, such as persistent nausea/vomiting, dark urine, stomach/abdominal pain, or yellowing of the eyes/skin
• Signs of kidney problems, such as changes in the amount of urine produced

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Aldactazide,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have allergies to spironolactone, hydrochlorothiazide or any ingredients in Aldactazide.

Tell your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially:

• Untreated electrolyte imbalances (high potassium, low sodium)
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Diabetes
• Dehydration
• Lupus
• Gout
• High blood fats (cholesterol/triglycerides)
• Adrenal gland dysfunction (Addison's disease)
• Skin cancer

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take before surgery.

Aldactazide may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you feel safe. Limit alcohol and marijuana use.

Severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting can lead to dehydration. Report these to your healthcare provider and drink plenty of fluids unless advised otherwise.

Aldactazide may increase sun sensitivity and the risk of skin cancer. Limit sun exposure, use sunscreen and protective clothing. Report sunburn, blisters, redness, or changes in moles/skin lesions to your healthcare provider.

For diabetics, Aldactazide may affect blood sugar levels. Monitor blood sugar regularly and report changes to your healthcare provider.

Aldactazide may affect potassium levels. Consult your healthcare provider before taking potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium.

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, especially dizziness or lightheadedness, which can increase the risk of falling.

Aldactazide should only be used during pregnancy when clearly necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Aldactazide passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.