| drug | Chlorthalidone |
| classification | Thiazide diuretic |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, peak plasma levels in 1-2 hours | | distribution | Distributed throughout the body, with high tissue penetration | | metabolism | Metabolized in the liver | | excretion | Excreted primarily by the kidneys, half-life varies from 30 to 60 hours. |
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| suggested dosage | | adults | 25-100 mg once daily, typically as a single daily dose. Adjust based on patient response and blood pressure. | | 70 kg male patient (25 years old) | The starting dosage is typically 12.5mg to 25mg once daily, adjusted according to the patient's blood pressure and response. A physician should determine the proper dosage. |
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| indications | | 1 | Essential hypertension (high blood pressure) | | 2 | Edema associated with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis, and nephrotic syndrome. |
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| safety in pregnancy | | category | Pregnancy Category C | | description | Chlorthalidone crosses the placenta, but data regarding safety during pregnancy is limited. It should be used in pregnancy only if clearly needed. Consult with a physician regarding use in pregnancy. |
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| safety in breastfeeding | | description | Chlorthalidone may be present in breast milk. The potential risk to infants is uncertain. Discuss with a physician whether the benefits of chlorthalidone outweigh potential risks in the breastfeeding mother. | | caution | Caution advised |
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| side effects | | 1 | Hypokalemia (low potassium) | | 2 | Hyponatremia (low sodium) | | 3 | Hyperuricemia (high uric acid) | | 4 | Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) | | 5 | Headache | | 6 | Dizziness | | 7 | Nausea | | 8 | Vomiting | | 9 | Muscle cramps | | 10 | Fatigue | | 11 | Lightheadedness | | 12 | Photosensitivity | | 13 | Dry mouth |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to chlorthalidone or other thiazide diuretics | | 2 | Severe renal impairment | | 3 | Severe hepatic impairment | | 4 | Anuria | | 5 | Lactation (if severe side effects are a concern) |
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| interactions | | 1 | Digoxin, lithium, corticosteroids, antidiabetics, NSAIDs, and other diuretics. | | 2 | The risk of interaction is increased in patients with reduced renal function. Consult with your doctor if you are taking any other medications. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride) regularly, especially in patients with renal or hepatic impairment | | 2 | Monitor blood sugar and renal function, particularly in patients with diabetes or risk factors for kidney disease. | | 3 | Be cautious in patients with gout, as chlorthalidone may worsen symptoms. | | 4 | Be cautious in patients with lupus. In rare cases, chlorthalidone has been linked to lupus exacerbation. |
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| additional information | | mechanism of action | Chlorthalidone inhibits sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron, increasing urine output and lowering blood pressure. | | dosage adjustment | Adjust dosage based on patient's response. A physician should guide this adjustment. | | monitoring requirements | Regular monitoring of blood pressure, electrolyte levels, and renal function is crucial while on this medication |
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