Triamterene-HCTZ

Triamterene-HCTZ is often prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure and fluid retention. The medicine combines two diuretics to achieve its effects, which include increasing the amount of salt and water that are removed from the blood. This decreases blood volume, which can lower blood pressure. Triamterene-HCTZ comes in both capsule and tablet form. Side effects can include dizziness, nausea, and low blood pressure.

What Is Triamterene-HCTZ?

Triamterene-HCTZ (Dyazide^®, Maxzide^®) is a prescription medicine that is used as a diuretic for high blood pressure and fluid retention. It is a combination of two medications: triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ).

Who Makes It?

Maxzide is made by Mylan Pharmaceuticals. Dyazide is made by GlaxoSmithKline. Generic triamterene-HCTZ is made by several manufacturers.

What Is This Drug Used For?

Some specific uses of triamterene-HCTZ include:

Controlling high blood pressure (hypertension)
Treating water retention (edema).

(Click What Is Triamterene-HCTZ Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

How Does Triamterene-HCTZ Work?

Triamterene-HCTZ is a diuretic. These drugs are commonly referred to as "water pills." This particular medication contains two diuretics that work together to keep electrolyte levels in balance.

Hydrochlorothiazide, while effective, often causes low potassium levels in the blood. On the other hand, triamterene is a "potassium-sparing" diuretic, which means it can actually increase potassium levels in the blood. When taken together, these medications balance each other out.

Triamterene-HCTZ works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. The extra salt and water are passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, triamterene-HCTZ causes a decrease in blood volume. As a result, the medication can lower blood pressure and help with water retention.

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