Before taking xipamide

Before taking xipamide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have Addison's disease, diabetes or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• If you suffer from porphyria (a rare blood disorder) or gout (pain and stiffness in the joints).
• If you know you have low blood potassium, low blood sodium, or high blood calcium.
• If you have problems passing water.
• If you have an adrenal gland disorder.
• If you have narrowing of the arteries in the heart or brain (arteriosclerosis).
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• 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 xipamide

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take xipamide exactly as your doctor has told you to.
• Try to take xipamide at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses. It is usually taken in the morning so that it works during the day and your sleep is not disturbed.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember. However, if it is after 6 pm in the evening, skip the missed dose and continue taking it at the usual time the following day. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Many patients with high blood pressure do not feel unwell, but left untreated high blood pressure can harm the heart and arteries and damage blood vessels resulting in a heart attack, stroke, heart failure or kidney failure. It is important that you take these tablets regularly to help reduce the risk of these.
• Diuretics like xipamide 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.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking xipamide.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• Do not stop taking xipamide without speaking to your doctor first.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can xipamide cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects which 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.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store xipamide

• 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