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What should I discuss with my doctor before taking hydrochlorothiazide and methyldopa (Aldoril 15, Aldoril 25, Aldoril D30, Aldoril D50)?

Do not use hydrochlorothiazide and methyldopa if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as furazolidone (Furoxone), isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to methyldopa (Apresoline) or hydrochlorothiazide, or if you have:

• liver disease (including cirrhosis or hepatitis);
• a history of liver problems caused by taking methyldopa; or
• if you are unable to urinate.

To make sure you can safely take hydrochlorothiazide and methyldopa, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);
• angina pectoris (chest pain);
• glaucoma;
• asthma;
• gout;
• lupus;
• diabetes;
• an allergy to sulfa drugs or penicillin; or
• if you have ever had a stroke.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether hydrochlorothiazide and methyldopa will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

Hydrochlorothiazide and methyldopa can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take hydrochlorothiazide and methyldopa (Aldoril 15, Aldoril 25, Aldoril D30, Aldoril D50)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Visit your doctor regularly.

Conditions that may cause very low blood pressure include: vomiting, diarrhea, heavy sweating, heart disease, dialysis, a low salt diet, or taking diuretics (water pills). Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink while taking hydrochlorothiazide and methyldopa. Tell your doctor if you have a prolonged illness that causes diarrhea or vomiting.

Your blood and urine may both be tested if you have been vomiting or are dehydrated.

Hydrochlorothiazide can interfere with the results of a thyroid test. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using a thiazide diuretic.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using hydrochlorothiazide and methyldopa. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Keep using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

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