SUMMARY:

Triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a combination product that is known by the brand name DIazide or Maxide. It is a combination of two diuretics. Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic while HCTZ is a thiazide diuretic. This combination product is used in the treatment of hypertension and peripheral edema. It comes as a capsule and as a tablet. Both work in the distal convoluted tubule but triamterene increases potassium retention while HCTZ does not. Common side effects are muscle cramps, electrolyte disorders, constipation, and orthostatic hypotension. There is a black box warning for hyperkalemia that can be potentially fatal if uncorrected and potassium should be monitored in high risk patients. It can be taken with or without food and should be taken 4 hours before or 4-6 hours after medications like cholestipol and cholestyramine.