What is Triamterene-HCTZ? Uses, warnings & side effects

Follow all the prescriber’s instructions.

Take only one dose daily with or without food.

Swallow the tablet or capsule whole with a drink of water. Do not break, crush, or chew it.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature away from light and moisture.

Take a dose as soon as you remember.

If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose.

Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

This medicine is not right for everyone. 

Do not use it if you have had an allergic reaction to triamterene, hydrochlorothiazide, or a sulfa drug. 

Trimaterene is also contraindicated in people:

• Unable to urinate

• Have severe kidney disease

• Have high potassium levels 

Tell any healthcare provider or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine.

Triamterene-HCTZ treatment requires regular check-ups and blood tests to monitor the effectiveness and safety of the treatment. Keep all appointments.

Before starting triamterene-HCTZ, tell the prescriber if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or if you have:

• Liver disease, especially cirrhosis of the liver

• Electrolyte imbalances

• Heart rhythm abnormalities

• Diabetes

• Gout

• Lupus

• A history of kidney stones

• Parathyroid gland problems

• Low folic acid levels

This medicine can cause serious side effects, including: 

• Electrolyte imbalances

• Kidney problems, including kidney stones

• Narrow-angle glaucoma

• High uric acid levels

• New or worsening gout

• Increased risk of skin cancer

This medicine could lower your blood pressure too much and make you dizzy, lightheaded, or faint. 

• Sit or lie down if you feel dizzy. 

• Do not drive or engage in risky activities until you know how this medicine affects you.

Drink plenty of fluids if you exercise, sweat more than usual, or have diarrhea or vomiting while you are using this medicine.

This medicine can increase the risk of skin cancer. 

• Wear sunscreen or protective clothing when exposed to the sun. 

• Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

Never use triamterene-HCTZ with:

• Other potassium-sparing diuretics

• Potassium supplements or salt substitutes (except in people with low potassium)

To avoid potentially hazardous drug interactions, tell the prescribing healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements regularly used, particularly:

• Other diuretics

• Laxatives

• Blood pressure drugs, including ACE inhibitors

• NSAIDs, particularly indomethacin

• Drugs that affect heart rhythms

• Diabetes medications

• Drugs that make you sleepy, such as narcotic pain relievers or sleeping pills

Ask your doctor or healthcare provider before you use any medicine, supplement, or salt substitute that contains potassium.

Avoid alcohol unless you’ve consulted with the prescriber.

Tell any doctor or healthcare provider who treats you that you are using this medicine.