Before taking cyclopenthiazide

Before taking cyclopenthiazide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have diabetes.
• If you suffer from gout or hyperuricaemia (high blood uric acid).
• If you have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• If you have Addison's disease or another adrenal gland disorder.
• If you have been told you have low levels of potassium or sodium in your blood, or high levels of calcium.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take cyclopenthiazide

• Before beginning treatment, make sure you read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take cyclopenthiazide exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Cyclopenthiazide will make you want to go to the toilet more often, so your doctor or pharmacist will usually advise you to take your dose in the morning.
• If you miss a dose of cyclopenthiazide take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is after 6 pm in the afternoon, skip the missed dose and continue taking it at the usual times the next day. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Diuretics like cyclopenthiazide help you to lose water. On occasions you may lose too much and become dehydrated leaving you feeling thirsty, your mouth dry, and your skin looking and feeling dry. Let your doctor know if this happens.
• It is important to follow any dietary advice that you have been given by your doctor or nurse.
• Many patients with high blood pressure do not feel unwell but, left untreated, high blood pressure can harm the heart and damage blood vessels, resulting in a heart attack, stroke, heart failure or kidney failure. Do not stop taking cyclopenthiazide without speaking to your doctor first.
• If you have diabetes, cyclopenthiazide may affect your blood sugar levels. Test your urine or blood regularly. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any changes.

Can cyclopenthiazide cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store cyclopenthiazide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

References

• British National Formulary; 58th Edition (September 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).