HCTZ Uses

High blood pressure and water retention can be treated with HCTZ. Uses of the medication have been approved for adults, children, and infants. Off-label HCTZ uses may include the treatment of certain types of diabetes insipidus and water retention due to premenstrual syndrome.

 

What Is HCTZ Used For? -- An Overview

HCTZ (hydrochlorothiazide or HCT) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat a couple of conditions. These specific HCTZ uses include:
 
 
o Kidney disease or kidney failure (renal failure).
HCTZ is available as a generic and is also sold under several brand names, including: Esidrix®, Microzide®, HydroDIURIL®, and Oretic®.
 
HCTZ for High Blood Pressure
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers -- for example: 120/80. The top number is known as the systolic blood pressure, and the bottom number is the diastolic blood pressure. High blood pressure is defined as an average blood pressure higher than 140/90 with multiple blood pressure readings.
 
Based on clinical studies, HCTZ has been shown to significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, HCTZ can decrease the risk of developing health problems (such as a stroke, heart disease, or congestive heart failure) that occur with long-term high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure). HCTZ is not a cure for high blood pressure.
(HCTZ Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;