Generic Hydrochlorothiazide

Introduction

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide‑type diuretic widely prescribed in the United Kingdom for the management of and fluid retention. The medication contains the single active compound Hydrochlorothiazide and belongs to the Blood Pressure therapeutic group. In addition to lowering high blood pressure, it is commonly used to reduce oedema associated with heart liver cirrhosis, and renal disease. Its efficacy, low cost, and long‑standing safety record make it a cornerstone of cardiovascular risk reduction in primary‑care practice.

What is Hydrochlorothiazide?

Hydrochlorothiazide is a synthetic sulfonamide that acts as a diuretic. It is classified as a thiazide‑type antihypertensive agent and was first introduced in the early 196s. The drug is marketed worldwide by many manufacturers; well‑known brand names include Hydrodiuril, Microzide, and Esidrix.

Hydrochlorothiazide is the generic version these brand‑name products, containing the same active compound Hydrochlorothiazide. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost‑effective treatment option.

The medication is supplied as oral tablets of varying strengths (typically 12.5 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg) and is approved for use in adults under the supervision of a qualified health professional.

How Hydrochlorothiazide Works

Hydrochlorothiazide inhibits the sodium‑chloride symporter located in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron. By blocking this transporter, the drug reduces re‑absorption of sodium and chloride, leading to increased urinary excretion of sodium, chloride, and water. The resulting decrease in extracellular fluid volume lowers cardiac output, while long‑term reductions in peripheral vascular resistance contribute to sustained blood‑pressure control.

Onset of diuretic action occurs within 2 hours of ingestion, with peak effect at 4–6 hours. The half‑life is approximately 6‑15 hours, allowing once‑daily dosing for most patients. Clearance is primarily renal, and the drug is eliminated unchanged in the urine.

Conditions Treated with Hydrochlorothiazide

• Essential hypertension –iazide diuretics are first‑line agents in UK hypertension guidelines (NICE136). They reduce systolic and diastolic pressure and lower the risk of stroke and myocardial infarction.
• Edema secondary to heart failure – By promoting fluid loss, Hydrochlorothiazide helps alleviate pulmonary and peripheral congestion.
• Edema associated with liver cirrhosis – Reduces ascites when combined with other diuretics such as spironolactone.
• Chronic kidney disease with fluid overload – Offers a modest antihypertensive effect while managing volume status, provided glomerular filtration is ≥30 mL/min.

In the United Kingdom, hypertension affects roughly 30 % of adults, making effective, inexpensive therapy a public‑health priority. Hydrochlorothiazide’s proven benefit in large outcome trials (e.g., SHEP, ALLHAT) underpins its continued recommendation.

Who is Hydrochlorothiazide For?

Hydrochlorothiazide is appropriate for adult patients who require blood‑pressure reduction or volume management and who have no contraindications to thiazide diuretics. Typical candidates include:

• Individuals with newly diagnosed stage 1 or 2 hypertension who are otherwise healthy.
• Patients with chronic heart failure (NYHA class II‑III) needing adjunctive diuresis.
• People with liver‑related ascites where a modest diuretic effect is advantageous.

The drug is not recommended for:**

• Patients with known hypersensitivity to sulfonamides.
• Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²) unless closely monitored.
• Pregnant women in the third trimester, as electrolyte disturbance may jeopardise fetal health.

Clinicians often combine Hydrochlorothiazide with other antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors, calcium‑channel blockers) to achieve target blood‑pressure goals while mitigating side‑effects.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Electrolyte disturbances – hypokalaemia, hyponatraemia, low magnesium.
• Increased uric acid – may precipitate gout attacks.
• Elevated blood glucose – can worsen diabetes control.
• Dizziness or light‑headedness – especially after the first dose (orthostatic hypotension).

Rare

• Photosensitivity reactions – rash or sunburn‑like symptoms on exposed skin.
• Pancreatitis – characterised by abdominal pain and elevated enzymes.
• Severe hyponatraemia – leading to confusion or seizures, more common in the elderly.

Serious

• Acute kidney injury – especially when combined with NSAIDs or in patients with volume depletion.
• Severe hypokalaemia – may cause cardiac arrhythmias.
• Allergic reactions – anaphylaxis, angioedema, or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.

Clinically Relevant Drug–Drug Interactions

• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – may blunt diuretic efficacy and increase nephrotoxicity.
• Lithium – Hydrochlorothiazide reduces lithium clearance, raising the risk of toxicity.
• Digitalis glycosides – hypokalaemia can potentiate digitalis toxicity.
• Antidiabetic agents – thiazides may impair glucose tolerance; dose be needed.

Patients current medicines, including over‑the‑counter supplements, to their prescriber.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing – The usual adult dose for hypertension is 12.5 mg to 25 mg taken once daily in the morning. For oedema, doses of 25 mg50 mg once daily, adjusted according to clinical response and renal function.
• Missed dose – If a dose is forgotten, take it as soon as remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed tablet and resume the regular schedule; do not double‑dose.
• Overdose – Symptoms may include severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and hypotension. Prompt medical attention is required; treatment consists of fluid replacement and correction of electrolytes under supervision.
• and alcohol – Hydrochlorothiazide can be taken with or without food. Alcohol may exacerbate orthostatic dizziness, so moderation is advised.
• Comorbidities – In patients with diabetes, regular monitoring of blood‑glucose is essential. Those with gout should have uric acid levels checked periodically.

Buying Hydrochlorothiazide from Our Online Pharmacy

Hydrochlorothiazide can be purchased safely from our online pharmacy in the. Our service offers several distinct advantages:

• Affordable pricing – We source the generic product close to manufacturer cost, passing the savings directly to you.
• Verified quality – All tablets are obtained from licensed overseas suppliers that meet European Medicines Agency (EMA) standards.
• Guaranteed delivery – Discreet packaging is shipped via express courier (typically 7 days) or regular airmail (approximately 3 weeks). Tracking is provided for every order.
• Online‑only access – Patients who encounter limited stock or high prices at local pharmacies can obtain a reliable supply without leaving home.

As a pharmacy‑broker service, we collaborate with internationally accredited pharmacies, ensuring a secure, privacy‑respecting transaction. This model expands access to essential medicines such as Hydrochlorothiazide for individuals who might otherwise face barriers to treatment.

FAQ

• Is Hydrochlorothiazide available in both brand‑name and generic forms in the UK?
  Yes. The medication is sold under several brand names, including Hydrodiuril, Microzide, and Esidrix, as well as generic versions that contain the identical active compound. Generic Hydrochlorothiazide is typically less expensive while providing the same therapeutic effect.

• Does Hydrochlorothiazide require refrigeration?
  No refrigeration is needed. The tablets should be stored at room temperature, protected from moisture, direct sunlight, and excessive heat to maintain stability.

• What does a Hydrochlorothiazide tablet look like?
  Appearance varies by manufacturer, but common formulations are white or off‑white round or oval often scored for easy splitting. In the UK, the 25 mg strength is frequently round with “25” imprinted on one side.

• Can I travel internationally with Hydrochlorothiazide?
  Yes, provided you carry the medication in its original packaging with a clear label showing the active and dosage. For journeys longer than three months, it is advisable to bring a copy of the prescription or a doctor’s note to satisfy customs regulations.

• Are there differences in formulation between EU and‑EU Hydrochlorothiazide products?
  Core ingredients (Hydrochlorothiazide) are identical, but inactive excipients such as fillers, binders, or dyes may differ. These variations rarely affect efficacy but can influence tolerance with specific allergies.

• How does Hydrochlorothiazide affect uric acid levels?
  The drug can reduce renal clearance of uric acid, leading to modest elevations in serum urate. In susceptible individuals, this may trigger gout flares, so periodic monitoring is recommended.

• What are the most common drug‑interaction warnings for Hydrochlorothiazide?
  The most clinically significant interactions involve NSAIDs (reduced diuretic effect and kidney risk), lithium (increased lithium levels), and digitalis glycosides (heightened risk of arrhythmia due to low potassium).

• Is Hydrochlorothiazide safe for use in the elderly?
  It is frequently prescribed to older adults, but they are more vulnerable to electrolyte disturbances, orthostatic hypotension, and hyponatraemia. Regular monitoring of electrolytes and blood pressure is essential in this population.

• Can Hydrochlorothiazide be taken together with potassium‑rich foods?
  Consuming potassium‑rich foods (bananas, oranges, leafy greens) can help mitigate hypokalaemia, a common side effect. However, dietary changes should complement—not replace—any potassium‑sparing medications a doctor may prescribe.

• What is the legal status of importing Hydrochlorothiazide for personal use in the UK?
  UK regulations permit individuals to import a three‑month supply of prescription‑only medicines for personal use, provided the medication is for a legitimate medical need and is not for resale. Import should comply with customs declarations and any applicable duties.

Glossary

Thiazide diuretic

A class of medications that promote the excretion of sodium and water by inhibiting the sodium‑chloride transporter in the kidney’s distal tubule, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing fluid overload.

Orthostatic hypotension

A drop in blood pressure that occurs when a person stands up from sitting or lying down, often causing dizziness or faintness.

Electrolyte disturbance

An abnormal level of minerals (such as potassium, sodium, or magnesium) in the blood, which can affect nerve, muscle, and heart function.

eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate)

A calculation that estimates how well the kidneys filter blood, expressed in millilitres per minute1.73 m² of body surface area; it guides dosing of renally excreted drugs.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Hydrochlorothiazide is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Hydrochlorothiazide for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.