Drug NameTriamterene (Triamterene/ Hydrochlorothiazide)
Drug UsesTriamterene pill combines Triamterene and Hydrochlorothiazide. Triamterene ia potassium-conserving (antikaliuretic) diuretic with relatively weak natriuretic properties. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic and antihypertensive agent. It blocks the renal tubular absorption of sodium and chloride ions.
How TakenUse Triamterene as directed by your doctor.
- Take Triamterene by mouth with food.
- If you have trouble swallowing the tablet whole, it may be crushed or chewed with a little water.
Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Triamterene.
Drug Class and MechanismTriamterene is a potassium-conserving (antikaliuretic) diuretic with relatively weak natriuretic properties. It exerts its diuretic effect on the distal renal tubule to inhibit the reabsorption of sodium in exchange for potassium and hydrogen. With this action, triamterene increases sodium excretion and reduces the excessive loss of potassium and hydrogen associated with hydrochlorothiazide. Triamterene is not a competitive antagonist of the mineralocorticoids and its potassium-conserving effect is observed in patients with Addison's disease, i.e., without aldosterone. Triamterene's onset and duration of activity is similar to hydrochlorothiazide.
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic and antihypertensive agent. It blocks the renal tubular absorption of sodium and chloride ions. This natriuresis and diuresis is accompanied by a secondary loss of potassium and bicarbonate. Onset of hydrochlorothiazide's diuretic effect occurs within two hours and the peak action takes place in four hours. Diuretic activity persists for approximately six to twelve hours.
Missed DoseIf you miss a dose of Triamterene and are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage Store Triamterene at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep Triamterene out of the reach of children and away from pets.
Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:
Triamterene is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.