Precaution
There are certain circumstances and medical conditions where this medication is not recommended, or should be taken with caution. Be sure to inform your physician of all your medical conditions before you begin taking a medication. Some conditions can affect how you should take this medication.
Cholesterol: Cholesterol and triglyceride levels may increase when taking hydrochlorothiazide.
Diabetes: Hydrochlorothiazide may make it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar levels. A dose adjustment of antidiabetic medications, including insulin, may be required.
Electrolytes: The use of hydrochlorothiazide can reduce the levels of electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, magnesium, and chloride, and increase the levels of calcium. Your doctor will periodically check to see if these levels are in balance and a potassium supplement may be recommended. Warning signs or symptoms of fluid and electrolyte imbalance include:
Gout: Certain people who take this medication may experience high levels of uric acid in the blood or they may develop gout.
Kidney function: Use of this medication may affect the function of the kidneys, especially for those who already have kidney problems. If you have pre-existing kidney function problems and take this medication, your kidney function should be closely monitored. This medication should not be taken by people with severely impaired kidney function.
Liver function: People with reduced liver function may need a lower-than-normal dose of losartan - hydrochlorothiazide.
Low blood pressure: Occasionally, a greater-than-expected drop in blood pressure occurs after taking this medication. It is more likely to occur if you are taking additional diuretics (water pills), have reduced salt intake, are on dialysis, or are experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. Blood pressure should be monitored more often in these situations. To reduce the risk of dizziness, those with low blood pressure or those just starting to take this medication should stand or sit up slowly from a lying-down or sitting position.
Lupus: There have been reports of a worsening or activation of lupus in people taking hydrochlorothiazide.
Pregnancy: This medication should not be taken by pregnant women. If you become pregnant while taking losartan - hydrochlorothiazide, consult your doctor immediately as the medication should be stopped as soon as possible.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if losartan passes into breast milk. Hydrochlorothiazide does pass into breast milk. A decision should be made whether to stop taking the medication or to stop breast-feeding based on the importance of the medication to the health of the mother.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of this medication for children is unknown. This medication is not recommended for children.
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