Triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide is a combination of two diuretics used to treat high blood pressure or water retention in patients who are at risk for developing serious potassium loss with hydrochlorothiazide alone, according to MedicineNet. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that helps with fluid retention by preventing the body from absorbing too much salt, claims RXList. Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic that keeps potassium levels from getting too low and helps prevent excessive salt absorption.Continue Reading
Lowering a person's blood pressure with triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide can also help prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems, according to MedicineNet. Triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide, also known by the brand name Dyazide, may interact with other drugs, and this could change the way that it works or even increase the side effects of the drug, according to WebMD. A few drugs that interact with Dyazide are dofetilide, lithium and drugs used to increase potassium levels, such as spironolactone, amiloride and cyclosporine.
Furthermore, some cold and cough products, diet aids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs contain ingredients that increase blood pressure, which is the opposite of what triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide is used for. There are many other drugs that interact with triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide, so a physician should be informed about all other drugs or medical problems before prescribing this drug, advises Mayo Clinic.Learn more about Medications & Vitamins