Dyazide & Weight Loss
Dyazide is a prescription drug used for treating high blood pressure and edema (water retention). It's actually a combination of two diuretics, hydrochlorothiazide and triamterene, which unite to provide relief for patients at risk for developing hypokalemia, low potassium levels. Because it's so effective in fluid removal, Dyazide can lead to weight loss.
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Function
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Dyazide, with its powerful combination of diuretics hydrochlorothiazide and triamterene, prompts the body to produce more urine. This removes excess fluid from the body and, as a result, eliminates sodium. Triamterene, in particular, blocks the body from reabsorbing sodium by halting sodium-transport mechanisms. The subsequent drop in sodium lowers blood pressure and helps prevent fluid retention. This can lead to an immediate loss in water weight.
Benefits
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With some diuretics, there's a risk of losing too much potassium with the increased urination. Dyazide's triamterene actually spares the body's potassium supply, eliminating the risk of potassium deficiency.
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Effects
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Aside from the obvious weight loss benefits of fluid removal, Dyazide has a few other potential side effects that can cause initial weight loss. Patients have reported experiencing lack of appetite, nausea, upset stomach, cramps and diarrhea when first starting Dyazide. These symptoms typically go away after a few days of using the drug, but they could cause an initial drop in caloric intake, leading to initial weight loss.
Considerations
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Any weight loss associated with Dyazide is a direct result of fluid removal. Unless the temporary side effects linger and interfere with appetite, Dyazide will only cause the loss of water weight. If weight loss becomes a concern, the medication dosage may need adjusting.
Warnings
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Since the triamterene prevents potassium loss, Dyazide can on occasion lead to elevated potassium levels, especially in the elderly or patients with kidney disease, diabetes or severe illness. Extraordinarily high potassium levels can prove fatal. Potassium should be monitored on a regular basis while taking the drug, and potassium supplements should never be taken along with Dyazide in order to avoid any dangerous complications.
Other potential side effects of Dyazide include decreased sexual ability, increased skin sensitivity to sunlight, dizziness and headaches.
If the medication removes too much water, it can lead to a significant loss in minerals. Dehydration can result, causing such symptoms as muscle weakness, cramps, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, confusion and irregular heartbeat. Consult a doctor immediately if experiencing any of these conditions.
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