Detailed Drug Information:

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: This medication is currently onlyavailable in combination with another diuretic called hydrochlorothiazide. This medication is a mild diuretic and blood pressure-lowering(antihypertensive) medication which reduces the potassium loss occurringwith its combined drug hydrochlorothiazide.

PREPARATIONS: Is a combination drug of various doses. Usually incapsule form.

STORAGE: Store in a dry place at 30 degrees C (86 F).

PRESCRIBED FOR: This medication combination is used for thetreatment of elevated blood pressure (hypertension) and is a diuretic.

DOSING: Triamterene should be taken at doses specificallydirected by your physician. This medication can be taken with or withoutfood. Since this is a combination diuretic and will cause urination a.m.dosing may be more desirable but advice from you physician is needed.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Do not use in excess. Abnormal elevations ofthe blood potassium can occur and is more common in patients with kidneydisorders or in the elderly. Blood potassium levels should be monitoredand the patient should be in close contact with their physician. Strictcompliance with dosing is mandatory. This combination of drugs can causesunburns if in the sun directly.

SIDE EFFECTS: Elevated blood potassium levels is the mostserious side effect. Dehydration is possible, but uncommon. Triamterenemay interfere with folic acid metabolism and contribute to red blood cellenlargement. Monitoring of the blood count is advised. See side effect forhydrochlorothiazide. Liver and kidney damage is uncommon but bloodmonitoring is advised.