Dyazide (Triamterene / HCTZ)

Description

Dyazide is a combination medication that includes two active ingredients: Triamterene and Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). It belongs to a class of drugs known as diuretics, often referred to as water pills. Triamterene works by maintaining potassium levels in the body, while HCTZ helps get rid of excess fluid. Together, they help manage fluid retention (edema) and control high blood pressure (hypertension). People may use Dyazide on its own or along with other medications to help manage these health problems.

Directions

Dyazide is typically taken by mouth. The usual dosage is 1 to 2 capsules or tablets daily, depending on individual health needs. Take Dyazide exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. It's important to take this medication consistently, either with or without food. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it's nearly time for the next dose; do not double doses. Monitoring blood pressure and kidney function tests may be part of the treatment process. Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium, as Dyazide can increase potassium levels.

Ingredients

The active ingredients in Dyazide are Triamterene and HCTZ.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Allergy to sulfa drugs or thiazides: Patients with a history of allergic reactions to these substances should not take Dyazide.
• Kidney disease or inability to urinate: The medication relies on kidney function for its effects and safety.
• High potassium levels (hyperkalemia): Due to Dyazide's potassium-sparing nature, using it with already elevated potassium levels can be dangerous.
• Use with other potassium-sparing diuretics: Taking Dyazide with other potassium-sparing diuretics can lead to increased potassium levels.

Cautions

• Before taking Dyazide, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Dyazide helps your body get rid of extra fluid but also keeps potassium from being lost. This means your potassium levels could get too high, especially if you have kidney problems, diabetes, or are elderly.
• While Dyazide is designed to prevent potassium loss, some people may still develop low potassium, which can affect your heart and muscles. If it happens, your doctor may suggest eating more potassium-rich foods or taking supplements.
• Dyazide can upset the balance of salts and minerals in your body, especially if you’re on a low-salt diet, are vomiting, or have liver, kidney, or heart problems. Signs to watch for include dry mouth, tiredness, dizziness, muscle cramps, fast heartbeat, or confusion.
• In rare cases, Dyazide can trigger an eye condition called acute angle-closure glaucoma, which may cause sudden eye pain or vision problems. If this happens, stop taking the drug and get emergency help right away. Risk is higher if you've had a sulfa or penicillin allergy.
• Dyazide can raise blood sugar levels and may make diabetes harder to manage. It may also cause diabetes to appear in people who didn’t have it before. If you have diabetes, you may need more frequent blood sugar checks or changes to your medications.
• If you have liver disease, Dyazide should be used carefully. It may increase the risk of serious liver issues, including coma. Warning signs include confusion, drowsiness, or tremors. If these occur, tell your doctor right away.
• Dyazide is cleared from your body by the kidneys, so it may build up if your kidneys aren’t working well. This can raise the risk of serious side effects like high potassium or dehydration. Your doctor may need to monitor your kidney function with blood tests.
• A chemical in Dyazide has been found in kidney stones. If you’ve had kidney stones before, let your doctor know before starting this medication.
• Long-term use of Hydrochlorothiazide has been linked to a higher risk of certain skin cancers. Protect your skin from the sun and check regularly for unusual spots or moles.
• Dyazide can affect how your body responds to anesthesia and certain muscle relaxants. Tell your surgeon or anesthesiologist ahead of time if you take Dyazide.
• Dyazide may affect the baby if used during pregnancy. It’s not recommended while breastfeeding because the ingredients may pass into breast milk. Let your doctor know if you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing.
• Dyazide has not been proven safe or effective for use in children.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Dyazide include dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, and muscle cramps. Some people may also experience nausea, constipation, or headache. Changes in blood electrolytes—such as low sodium or potassium, or high potassium—can occur, especially in people with kidney problems. These side effects are generally manageable but may require adjustments to your treatment.

More serious reactions are rare but include severe allergic responses, abnormal heart rhythms, pancreatitis, and liver or kidney problems. Blood disorders like anemia or low white cell counts have been reported, as well as skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Long-term use of Hydrochlorothiazide may slightly raise the risk of certain skin cancers, especially in light-skinned individuals using high cumulative doses. Let your doctor know right away if you experience severe rash, vision changes, or signs of an allergic reaction.

References

1. Dyazide (Triamterene / HCTZ) Product Monograph. Research Triangle Park, NC: GlaxoSmithKline; 2020.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....