Maxzide is used for treating fluid retention (edema) and high blood pressure. It may be used alone or with other medicines. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Maxzide is a diuretic (water pill), and is a combination of a potassium-sparing diuretic (triamterene) and a thiazide diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide). It works by making the kidneys eliminate sodium (salt) and water from the body, which helps to lower blood pressure. The triamterene component helps minimize potassium loss.

Most important: Maxzide may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Maxzide with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

Maxzide may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting; alcohol, hot weather, exercise, or fever may increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Sit or lie down at the first sign of any of these effects.

Maxzide may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Maxzide. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.

Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Maxzide before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

Diabetes patients – Maxzide may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.

Lab tests, including liver function, kidney function, lung function, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose, may be performed while you use Maxzide. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

Maxzide should not be used in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.

PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you plan on becoming pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Maxzide while you are pregnant. Maxzide is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Maxzide.