Chlorothiazide

Friday, January 27, 2012

Since the introduction of the parent compound, chlorothiazide, hydrochlorothiazide, hydroflumethiazide and several other compounds have been produced. In terms of diuretic effect and absence of toxicity there is little to choose between these three preparations. Eventually the choice may be determined on the basis of price. Toxic effects are very uncommon. An increased excretion of potassium results from the administration of each preparation. If given continuously over a prolonged period in doses approaching the maximum, depletion of body potassium with hypocalcaemia is liable to be produced and this can lead to serious illness or even a fatal result. Hence it is essential to prescribe a supplement of potassium whenever chlorothiazide or its derivatives are given more than twice a week. For this purpose tablets or capsules each containing 0.5g of potassium chloride will be found suitable, or a mixture of potassium chloride will be found suitable or a mixture of potassium acetate, citrate and chloride in an orange flavored drink.