Microzide (Cont.)

How Does Microzide Work?

Microzide is a diuretic, also commonly referred to as a "water pill." It works by increasing the amount of salt and water that the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, Microzide causes a decrease in blood volume. Because of this effect, Microzide can lower blood pressure and help with water retention.
 

Effects of Microzide

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. During clinical studies in people taking Microzide, both systolic and diastolic blood pressures decreased significantly.
 
By lowering blood pressure, Microzide can decrease the risk of developing health problems, such as a heart attack or stroke, that can occur as a result of long-term high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure).
 

When and How to Take Microzide

General considerations for when and how to take Microzide include the following:
 
  • Microzide comes in tablet and capsule form. It is usually taken by mouth once a day, although it may be taken several times a day.
     
  • You can take Microzide with or without food.
     
  • If necessary, Microzide tablets (but not capsules) may be split in half.
     
  • Microzide should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level of medicine in your blood. However, some people do not need to take Microzide every day, especially those who are taking it for fluid retention.
     
  • Because Microzide increases urination, it is best to take it in the morning (to avoid needing to get up to use the bathroom throughout the night). If you take Microzide multiple times per day, it is best to take the last dose of the day before 6:00 PM (unless you are instructed otherwise).
     
  • For Microzide to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed; it will not work if you stop taking it.
     
(Microzide Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;