LOPRESSOR HCT

Drug Name: LOPRESSOR HCT

LOPRESSOR HCT DESCRIPTION:
METOPROLOL WITH HCTZ - ORAL (met-oh-PRO-lol WITH HCTZ)

COMMON LOPRESSOR HCT BRAND NAME(S):
Lopressor HCT

LOPRESSOR HCT SIDE EFFECTS:
Headache, lightheadedness, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, gas, bloating, fatigue or increased urination may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Depression, anxiety, confusion, trouble sleeping, cold hands and feet, cough, dry skin, blurred vision, dry eyes, decreased sexual function and weight changes may also occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages and avoid overheating which will aggravate these effects. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, a rapid pulse, difficulty breathing, skin rash, tingling of the hands or feet, muscle aches, fever, unusual tiredness, easy bruising or bleeding, swelling of the feet or ankles (edema), jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine). LOPRESSOR HCT may cause blood disorders. Periodic laboratory tests will be done while taking LOPRESSOR HCT to monitor for these effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE LOPRESSOR HCT:
LOPRESSOR HCT: Take LOPRESSOR HCT exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time(s) each day. This may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Because LOPRESSOR HCT may initially increase urination, avoid taking a dose just before bedtime. Do not stop taking LOPRESSOR HCT without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. It is important to continue taking LOPRESSOR HCT even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

LOPRESSOR HCT WARNING:
If you have angina or have had heart problems, do not suddenly stop using LOPRESSOR HCT without first consulting your doctor. If your doctor decides you should no longer use this medication, you must stop LOPRESSOR HCT gradually according to your doctor's instructions.

LOPRESSOR HCT USES:
Metoprolol helps to widen arteries and veins so blood flows better. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a "water pill" (diuretic) that rids the body of excess fluid. This combination medication is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

LOPRESSOR HCT PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have: pre-existing kidney disease, heart disease, lung disease, liver disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, any allergies (especially to sulfa drugs). LOPRESSOR HCT can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. Diabetics must be aware that LOPRESSOR HCT can alter blood sugar levels and may hide signs of low blood sugar such as shaking, cold sweat, confusion. LOPRESSOR HCT should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of LOPRESSOR HCT are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

LOPRESSOR HCT DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, especially of: heart medications, pain medication, thyroid medication, cimetidine, oral diabetic medication, birth control pills. Do not take any medication for cough, colds, hay fever, allergies or weight control without first checking with your doctor or pharmacist. These medications may contain ingredients which can increase blood pressure. Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages while taking this medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

LOPRESSOR HCT OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include slow heart rate, dizziness, weakness, fainting, coughing, and trouble breathing.

LOPRESSOR HCT NOTES:
It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking LOPRESSOR HCT. Learn how to take your blood pressure and understand the readings. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist.

MISSED LOPRESSOR HCT DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

LOPRESSOR HCT STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.