Structure of Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic similar to chlorothiazide but with a hydrochloride salt form to enhance solubility.
Chemical Formula: C₇H₇ClN₃O₄S₂·HCl
Mode of Action
Thiazide Receptor Blocking: Inhibits the sodium-chloride symporter in the distal convoluted tubule.
Sodium and Chloride Excretion: Promotes diuresis by increasing excretion of sodium and chloride ions.
Potassium Loss: Enhances potassium and hydrogen ion excretion, potentially causing hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis.
Uses
Hypertension: Widely used as a first-line agent to manage essential hypertension.
Edema: Treats edema associated with congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and renal disorders.
Nephrolithiasis Prevention: Aids in preventing calcium-containing kidney stones.
Heart Failure: Part of diuretic therapy to reduce fluid retention.