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Chronic Care High Blood Pressure Diuretics Microzide
Chronic Care ... Microzide

Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) online prescription for high blood pressure

Hydrochlorothiazide prescription medication can help treat high blood pressure and fluid retention. Request a new prescription or refill of hydrochlorothiazide from a board-certified primary care doctor online.*

FDA-approved to treat high blood pressure & edema Available in tablet and liquid forms Reduces fluid buildup in the body
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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. Plushcare doctors cannot treat all cases of high blood pressure or edema (swelling). If they cannot directly diagnose or treat you, they will guide you, with referrals and resources, to in-person or specialist care.

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About hydrochlorothiazide

Hydrochlorothiazide is considered a thiazide diuretic (water pill), which helps your body get rid of extra fluid and water by increasing urination. Hydrochlorothiazide is also known by the abbreviation HCTZ and it's brand name Microzide, although it has been generic for a number of years.

 

Hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and fluid retention (edema). Hydrochlorothiazide is available only by prescription.

Hydrochlorothiazide is available as a generic drug and also as the active ingredient in other blood pressure medications such as Microzide.

 

Hydrochlorothiazide may be prescribed as a tablet, oral capsule, or liquid suspension. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.

If you're prescribed hydrochlorothiazide, be sure to take the thiazide diuretic as directed unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t take your prescription consistently, the thiazide diuretics may not fully treat your high blood pressure or fluid retention.

Hydrochlorothiazide uses

Hydrochlorothiazide is FDA-approved to treat hypertension and peripheral edema. It may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online doctor may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons.

 

It’s also possible that healthcare professionals may prescribe hydrochlorothiazide for other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.

High blood pressure

Microzide is FDA-approved to treat high blood pressure. It may be prescribed alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. By removing extra fluid from your body, Microzide keeps your heart from working too hard to pump blood, which lowers blood pressure.

Edema

Microzide is FDA-approved to treat edema. It increases urination to remove extra salt and fluid from the body.

What are the pros and cons?

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Cons

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Hydrochlorothiazide side effects

The side effects associated with taking hydrochlorothiazide are typically mild. Most hydrochlorothiazide side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort.

Hydrochlorothiazide has some common side effects. They may include:

  • Nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps

  • Feeling dizzy, tired, or weak

  • Diarrhea or constipation


Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

  • Shortness of breath or chest pain

  • Purple skin rash or skin pain

  • Electrolyte imbalance, especially high potassium (hyperkalemia) 

  • Eye pain or vision problems


Tell your doctor if you notice any adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. The use of hydrochlorothiazide is not approved in children under 18 years of age.

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How to take hydrochlorothiazide

Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your hydrochlorothiazide prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.

 

Hydrochlorothiazide can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. The typical starting dose of Microzide is 12.5 mg once daily to treat high blood pressure or edema. A dosage adjustment may be required depending on your treatment plan.

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What to avoid while taking hydrochlorothiazide

Hydrochlorothiazide has many possible drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or herbal products, as well as over-the-counter medications.

Possible drug interactions with Microzide include:


  • Lithium

  • Dofetilide

  • Other loop diuretics and antihypertensive agents

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin


When taking hydrochlorothiazide, drinking alcohol may have additive effects in lowering your blood pressure. Ask your doctor for medical advice about side effects before drinking alcohol.

Microzide increases your skin's sensitivity to the sun, which can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen when taking hydrochlorothiazide.

What to avoid

Medication alternatives to hydrochlorothiazide

If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest other thiazide diuretics, potassium-sparing diuretics, or loop diuretics in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:

High blood pressure

Bendrofluazide (bendroflumethiazide)
Hygroton (chlorthalidone)
Zytanix (metolazone)

Edema

Diuril (chlorothiazide) Lozol (indapamide)
Zytanix (metolazone)

Hydrochlorothiazide prescription FAQs

How much does hydrochlorothiazide cost?

Depending on your pharmacy, hydrochlorothiazide oral tablets cost around $12 for thirty 12.5 mg tablets without insurance. Hydrochlorothiazide is a generic medication. Brand names, such as Microzide, may cost more. There is no difference in active ingredients between generic and brand name. 

How can I refill my hydrochlorothiazide prescription?

To refill your Microzide prescription, book a virtual appointment with a board-certified PlushCare doctor. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.

Who should not take hydrochlorothiazide?

Avoid taking hydrochlorothiazide if you have certain medical conditions, such as:

  • Allergic reactions to Microzide

  • Lupus

  • High cholesterol

  • High blood sugar (diabetes)

  • Liver disease

  • Kidney disease or kidney failure

  • Renal function disorders

What should you avoid when taking hydrochlorothiazide?

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking hydrochlorothiazide. Alcohol can further lower your blood pressure, which may lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and serious side effects. Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position.

Avoid driving and doing other hazardous tasks until you know how Microzide affects you.

What medications interact with hydrochlorothiazide?

Possible drug interactions with Microzide include:

  • Lithium

  • Dofetilide

  • Other loop diuretics and antihypertensive agents

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin

What happens if I miss a dose of hydrochlorothiazide?

If you miss a dose of hydrochlorothiazide, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.

What happens if I take too much hydrochlorothiazide?

If you've taken too much hydrochlorothiazide, seek emergency medical help by calling 911 or contact your local poison control center.

3 simple steps to request your online hydrochlorothiazide prescription

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a hydrochlorothiazide request appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your hydrochlorothiazide prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your hydrochlorothiazide prescription, if provided.

We can send hydrochlorothiazide prescriptions online to any local pharmacy.

Hydrochlorothiazide prescription pricing details

To get a new or refill on your hydrochlorothiazide prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

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Paying without insurance

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Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.