Home Drug Guide Polythiazide

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Polythiazide

Brand Names Renese

Classification

Therapeutic: Antihypertensive, Diuretic

Pharmacological: Thiazide diuretic

FDA Approved Indications

Hypertension
Edema associated with congestive heart failure, hepatic cirrhosis, and renal disease

Mechanism of Action

Polythiazide inhibits sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule, leading to increased excretion of sodium, chloride, and water, which reduces blood volume and lowers blood pressure.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically 25-50 mg once daily; dosage may be adjusted based on response.

Pediatric: Not generally recommended for pediatric use; consult specific guidelines.

Geriatric: Start at lower doses with careful monitoring due to increased sensitivity and risk of electrolyte imbalance.

Renal Impairment: Use with caution; dosage adjustments may be necessary.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor closely, as hepatic impairment may alter drug response.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed from gastrointestinal tract.

Distribution: Widely distributed, bound to plasma proteins.

Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism.

Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

Half Life: Approximately 3-4 hours.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to thiazide diuretics
Anuria

Precautions

Electrolyte disturbances (hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypomagnesemia)
Diabetic patients (may affect glucose control)
Patients with gout (may precipitate attacks)
Use cautiously in patients with renal impairment, hepatic impairment, or those on other antihypertensive agents.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Electrolyte imbalance (hypokalemia, hyponatremia) (Common)
Hypotension (Common)
Dizziness, dizziness upon standing (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Electrolyte disturbances leading to arrhythmias (Serious)
Blood dyscrasias (rare) (Rare)
Allergic reactions (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Other antihypertensives, corticosteroids, NSAIDs, lithium

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor blood pressure, serum electrolytes (potassium, sodium, magnesium), renal function, and glucose levels.

Diagnoses:

Risk for electrolyte imbalance
Risk for falls due to hypotension

Implementation: Administer with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset; monitor for adverse effects.

Evaluation: Assess blood pressure response and electrolyte status regularly.

Patient/Family Teaching

Take medication exactly as prescribed.
Notify healthcare provider of signs of electrolyte imbalance (muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat).
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position to prevent orthostatic hypotension.
Maintain adequate fluid and electrolyte intake.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

None specific for Polythiazide.

Genetic Factors: None specified.

Lab Test Interference: May alter glucose and electrolyte tests.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances (hypokalemia, hyponatremia), hypotension.

Treatment: Discontinue medication, provide supportive care, correct electrolyte imbalances, and maintain adequate hydration.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.