Chlorthalidone

It is particularly long acting diuretic which is thiazide like, related heterocyclic.

Indications

Hypertension, oedema, toxaemia of pregnancy, premenstrual tension.

Dosage

Initially 50 mg on alternate days followed by 100 mg. All as single doses.

Contra-Indications

Severe renal failure. Cirrhosis of liver, nephrotic syndrome.

Special Precautions

Diabetes, renal or hepatic dysfunction, gout, Hypokalemia may occur, distortion of fluid electrolyte balance. Paediatrics: Reduced dose necessary. Pregnancy: May affect the developing baby. Lactation: May affect the infants. Elderly: No special problem.

Side Effects

G.I. disturbance, hearing loss, acute saline depletion, allergic manifestations, carbohydrate intolerance, impotence, postural hypotension, jaundice, cardiac arrhythmias, fatigue.

Drug Interactions

Potentiate aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity. Enhances lithium toxicity. Prolonged paralysis due to tubocurarine.