Triamterene/HCTZ is a prescription medication that is used to treat high blood pressure and edema. Triamterene/HCTZ is a combination medication containing hydrochlorothiazide and triamterene. It is the generic form of Dyazide and Maxzide. This medication works by preventing your body from absorbing excess salt.

Always read the medication information and instructions before using this medication.
Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• This medication is typically taken once daily.
• Continue taking this medication for high blood pressure, even when you feel well.
• You may need regular blood tests while taking Triamterene/HCTZ.

Make sure to tell your doctor:

• If you have any drug or other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications, especially other diuretics.
• Your medical history especially of kidney disease, kidney stones, cataracts, glaucoma, liver disease, cirrhosis, diabetes, gout, heart disease, heart rhythm disorders, urination problems or high levels of potassium levels.
• If you are taking potassium supplements, salt substitutes or low-sodium milk.
• If you are on a low-salt diet.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Other information you should also know:

• Alcohol can increase the side effects of this medication.
• Avoid eating a high-salt diet.
• Avoid becoming dehydrated or drinking too many liquids while taking this medication.
• Do not breast-feed while taking this medication.
• Triamterene/HCTZ should not be taken by anyone younger than 18.

Common side effects of triamterene/HCTZ:

• Stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Nausea.
• Headaches or dizziness.
• Dry mouth.
• Blurred vision.

If you have any of the following triamterene/HCTZ side effects, seek medical help:

• Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat.
• Feeling lightheaded or like you might pass out.
• Severe pain in the upper stomach that spreads to your back, with nausea or vomiting.
• Eye pain or vision changes including blurred vision, tunnel vision, or halos around lights.
• Jaundice.
• Dark urine or clay-colored stools.
• Fever, sore throat, and headache, with a red skin rash that blisters and peels.
• Signs of a lupus-like syndrome such as swollen glands, muscle aches, patchy skin color, chest pain, joint pain, swelling with fever, or unusual thoughts or behavior.
• Signs of an electrolyte imbalance such as stomach pain, fast heart rate, muscle pain, weakness, thirst, dry mouth, lightheadedness, or restlessness.
• Signs of a kidney problem such as painful, difficult, little or no urination, tiredness, shortness of breath, or swelling in the feet or ankles.
• Signs of high potassium such as slow or unusual heart rate, muscle weakness, loss of movement, numbness, tingling, or nausea.
• Signs of high potassium such as irregular heartbeats, fluttering in the chest, increased thirst or urination, constipation, leg cramps, muscle weakness, limp feeling, numbness, or tingling.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction including difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips, or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Triamterene/HCTZ?

If you miss a dose of Triamterene/HCTZ, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What is the strength of Triamterene/HCTZ?

Triamterene/HCTZ is available in a strength of 50mg/25mg.