Diuretic (water pill) — Thiazide type
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Hydrochlorothiazide is a water pill (diuretic) that helps your body get rid of extra water and salt through urine, which lowers your blood pressure and reduces swelling.
Inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron by blocking the thiazide-sensitive Na-Cl cotransporter, increasing urinary sodium and water excretion to reduce blood volume and lower blood pressure.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Is Hydrochlorothiazide safe to take with another drug?
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For high blood pressure, the usual adult dose is one 25 mg tablet once daily in the morning. Your doctor may increase it to 50 mg if needed. Take it in the morning so you are not waking up at night to urinate. You can take it with or without food, but taking it with food can reduce stomach upset.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — but if it is already afternoon or evening, skip it and take your next dose the following morning. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for it.
Buy only from licensed pharmacies — look for trusted Nigerian brands like Emzor Hydrochlorothiazide, Donyhydro-25, or Esinil-25 and avoid roadside sellers. Because this drug removes potassium from your body, eat potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, and potatoes regularly, and let your doctor check your blood levels from time to time. Do not stop taking this medicine because you feel fine — high blood pressure often has no symptoms but can cause stroke if untreated.
Avoid taking it with NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Brufen) or diclofenac regularly, as they can reduce its blood pressure-lowering effect and harm your kidneys. Be careful if you are also taking lithium or diabetes medicines, as hydrochlorothiazide can affect how they work. Alcohol can worsen dizziness and low blood pressure when combined with this drug.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Hydrochlorothiazide with your other drugs?
Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — consult your doctor for a safer alternative if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing a baby.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep the container tightly closed and far from the reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
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