Biology Disease
Drugs and Medicines

Drug Name Hydralazine HCl, Reserpine and Hydrochlorothiazide oral

Hydralazine HCl, Reserpine and Hydrochlorothiazide oral Drug Category HYDRALAZINE/RESERPINE/HCTZ - ORAL

Hydralazine HCl, Reserpine and Hydrochlorothiazide oral Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. HYDRALAZINE/RESERPINE/HCTZ - ORAL (hi-DRAL-uh-zeen/ree-SIR-peen/HCTZ) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ser-Ap-Es, Serpazide, Uni-Serp USES: Hydralazine and reserpine help to widen arteries and veins so blood flows better. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a "water pill" (diuretic) that helps rid the body of excess fluid. This combination medication is used to treat high blood pressure. HOW TO USE: Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, diarrhea, nasal stuffiness, constipation, loss of appetite, nausea, loss of taste, flushing, fatigue, or dry mouth may occur. Weight gain, anxiety, nervousness, dreams, nightmares, decreased sexual desire or ability, trouble urinating, or increased sun sensitivity may also occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages and avoid overheating which will aggravate these effects. Though unlikely to occur, notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, rapid pulse, difficulty breathing, skin rash, tingling of the hands or feet, mood changes, depression, severe stomach upset, jaundice, muscle or joint pain, change in the amount of urine. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, heart disease, blood disorders, eye problems, any allergies (especially to sulfa medications). This medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: This drug is not recommended for use with: dofetilide. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially: heart medicine, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), other antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), lithium. Do not take any medication for cough, colds, hay fever, allergies or weight control without first checking with your doctor or pharmacist. These medications may contain ingredients which can increase blood pressure. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include unusual dizziness, weakness, fast, irregular heartbeat, headache, flushing, sleepiness, slowed breathing, stiffness, leg pain, shaking, pinpoint pupils, and loss of consciousness. NOTES: It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to take your blood pressure and understand the readings. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).