Clortha
Generic Name
Chlorthalidone
Manufacturer
Example Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| clortha 25 mg tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 50.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Clortha 25 mg Tablet contains Chlorthalidone, a thiazide-like diuretic used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and edema (fluid retention). It helps your body get rid of excess water and salt.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Hypertension: Initially 25 mg orally once daily. May be increased to 50 mg/day if necessary. Edema: Initially 50 mg orally once daily. Dosage may vary based on clinical response.
Elderly
Lower initial doses (e.g., 12.5 mg) may be considered due to increased sensitivity and potential for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution in moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30-60 mL/min). Contraindicated in anuria and severe renal impairment (CrCl < 30 mL/min).
How to Take
Take the tablet orally, usually once daily in the morning with or without food. It is best to take it in the morning to avoid frequent urination during the night.
Mechanism of Action
Chlorthalidone inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the cortical diluting segment of the nephron (distal convoluted tubule), leading to increased excretion of sodium, chloride, and water. It also directly relaxes vascular smooth muscle, contributing to its antihypertensive effect.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Diuretic effect onset: 2-3 hours; Antihypertensive effect onset: 3-4 days to weeks for maximal effect.
Excretion
Primarily renal excretion (via urine), with some biliary excretion.
Half life
Approximately 40-60 hours (highly variable).
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with bioavailability ranging from 60-65%.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism; excreted mostly unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Anuria (absence of urine production)
- Known hypersensitivity to Chlorthalidone or other sulfonamide-derived drugs
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Diuretics may reduce renal clearance of lithium, leading to increased lithium levels and potential toxicity.
Digitalis Glycosides
Hypokalemia induced by chlorthalidone may increase the risk of digitalis toxicity.
Corticosteroids, ACTH
May intensify electrolyte imbalance, particularly hypokalemia.
Other Antihypertensives
Additive hypotensive effects may occur, requiring dosage adjustment.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the diuretic, natriuretic, and antihypertensive effects of chlorthalidone.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include nausea, weakness, dizziness, dry mouth, thirst, and severe electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hypokalemia, hyponatremia). Treatment is supportive, focusing on correcting fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Not recommended as a first-line treatment for hypertension in pregnancy. Use during lactation should be avoided, as it is excreted in breast milk and may suppress lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from the date of manufacture
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved (Generic)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied in clinical trials for its efficacy in hypertension and edema. Long-term studies have shown its benefit in reducing cardiovascular events.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum electrolytes (potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium)
- Renal function tests (BUN, creatinine)
- Blood glucose levels
- Uric acid levels (for gout risk)
Doctor Notes
- Monitor electrolytes (especially potassium) and renal function regularly, particularly in elderly patients or those on concomitant medications that affect electrolytes.
- Advise patients on dietary modifications (e.g., potassium-rich foods) if hypokalemia is a concern.
- Consider a lower dose in patients with impaired renal function.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well.
- Report any unusual side effects or symptoms to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Chlorthalidone may cause dizziness, especially when you first start taking it or when the dose is increased. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Follow a low-sodium diet and limit alcohol intake as advised by your doctor.
- Engage in regular physical activity and maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid smoking and manage stress effectively.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.