Chlorthalidone is a water pill indicated for use as a treatment for high blood pressure (hypertension), and fluid retention (edema) caused by various conditions. Chlorthalidone reduces the amount of water in the body by increasing urine flow, which can help lower blood pressure.

Chlorthalidone may be prescribed alone, or in conjunction with other medication as a treatment for high blood pressure. In addition to medication, your doctor may order certain lifestyle changes such as physical activity and dietary adjustments to lower blood pressure.

Chlorthalidone is prescribed alone, or in conjunction with other medications, to treat high blood pressure. It is also used to treat fluid retention (edema) caused by conditions like heart and kidney disease.

High blood pressure is a dangerous – potentially fatal – condition in which the heart is met with too much resistance from blocked or narrowed arteries as it tries to pump blood and oxygen around your body. When not treated, high blood pressure can lead to an array of serious health issues including heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and many more complications. Nearly ½ of Americans have high blood pressure, and heart disease is the leading cause of death of people in the United States.

Edema is commonly caused by the conditions listed above. It frequently affects the hands, arms, legs, feet, and ankles.

Common symptoms of edema include:

• Swelling in the affected area
  
• The skin over the affected area looks stretched out or shiny
  
• The skin holds a dimple after pressure is applied to it for several seconds
  
• Difficulty breathing (if the edema is in lung tissue)
  
• Difficulty with movement
  
• Swelling in the abdomen
  

Chlorthalidone has been shown to cause some side effects, however, this medication is generally well tolerated. The most common side effect of diuretic medication is more frequent urination.

Other effects include:

• Dizziness
  
• Muscle weakness/ cramping
  
• Headaches
  
• Dehydration
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Vomiting
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Change in appetite
  

If these adverse reactions do not go away within a few days, talk to your health care provider. If you experience difficulty breathing, skin rash, fever, or unusual bleeding/ bruising while taking chlorthalidone, seek medical attention immediately.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with chlorthalidone. Chlorthalidone can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant.

As a treatment for high blood pressure (hypertension), chlorthalidone is prescribed as a 25 mg oral tablet to be taken once a day. This dosage may increase as needed.

As a treatment for fluid retention (edema), chlorthalidone is prescribed as a 50 mg oral tablet to be taken once a day or a 100 mg oral tablet to be taken once every other day. This dosage may increase depending on need.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of chlorthalidone without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Chlorthalidone is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not chlorthalidone is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for chlorthalidone to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.