Before taking this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to either spironolactone or hydrochlorothiazide; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: untreated salt/mineral imbalance (such as high potassium, low sodium level), kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, loss of too much body water (dehydration), lupus, gout, high levels of fats in the blood (cholesterol/triglycerides), decreased adrenal gland function (Addison's disease).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.
To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. Significant loss of body water from too much sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea can also lower your blood pressure and worsen dizziness. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration/loss of too much body water. If you are on restricted fluid intake, consult your doctor for further instructions. Contact your doctor if you are unable to drink fluids or if you have persistent diarrhea/vomiting.
This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
If you have diabetes, this product may make it harder to control your blood sugar levels. Check your blood sugar levels regularly as directed by your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst and urination. Your anti-diabetic medication or diet may need to be adjusted.
This product may affect the potassium levels in your blood. Before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially the effects on potassium (see Side Effects section), dizziness, or lightheadedness. Dizziness and lightheadedness can increase the risk of falling.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide both pass into breast milk but are unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.