What is hydrochlorothiazide?
Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (sometimes called hypertension), edema (fluid retention), and other conditions as determined by your doctor. Hydrochlorothiazide works by helping the kidneys to get rid of excess water and salt.
High blood pressure is a common but serious condition that, if left untreated, can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and other parts of the body. This can lead to adverse events like heart disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and more.
Alongside prescribing hydrochlorothiazide, many doctors may also recommend that you make some healthy lifestyle changes to help keep your blood pressure under control. These may include following a diet that is low in salt and unhealthy fats, getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and moderating your alcohol consumption.