Moduret (Amiloride/HCTZ)

What is Moduret?

Moduret is a combination of two diuretics (water pills), namely, amiloride and hydrochlorothiazide.

What is Moduret used for?

Moduret is used to treat edema (extra fluid in the body), heart failure, and hypertension or high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent heart attacks, strokes and kidney troubles. Moduret also prevents low potassium levels in the blood (hypokalemia).

How does Moduret work?

Moduret is a combination of two drugs: amiloride and hydrochlorothiazide. Both of these drugs are diuretics and cause the body to get rid of extra salt and water, but they help to retain potassium. The drug thus lowers high blood pressure and cures edema, but maintains normal potassium levels in blood.

How to use Moduret

Moduret should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Moduret is usually taken orally once or twice a day, with food.

The drug should preferably be taken at least 4 hours before you go to sleep to prevent urination during night. The medication should be taken regularly for maximum benefit and should be continued even if your condition improves after a while.

If you take drugs to lower your cholesterol level take them at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after taking Moduret.

Your blood and kidney functions should be monitored regularly to check harmful effects of Moduret.

Do not increase or stop your dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse consult your doctor immediately.

Moduret warnings and precautions

Moduret is not administered to patients who are allergic to any of its ingredients. Patients who have kidney diseases, difficulty in urination, hyperkalemia or are taking potassium supplements or other potassium sparing diuretics are advised against using this drug.

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your medical conditions, especially if you are allergic to any other drug or if you have any of the following conditions: heart diseases, liver cirrhosis, diabetes or breathing disorders.

Do not take other diuretics, potassium or other salt supplements, or low sodium milk products which contain potassium during the course of the treatment. Avoid a diet high on salt as this may decrease the effectiveness of the drug.

Avoid consumption alcohol while taking this drug as alcohol may aggravate the side effects of Moduret.

Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Moduret is not believed to be harmful to a fetus. It is not known if it passes through breast milk. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the drug with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Moduret dose?

If you have missed a Moduret dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Moduret overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Moduret, seek emergency medical attention.

Moduret interactions

Some drugs which may interact with Moduret are: indomethacin and other NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, lithium etc.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using Moduret.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Moduret side effects

Side effects from Moduret include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat; hives, redness of skin etc. as well as some serious symptoms such as muscle pain, weakness, drowsiness, restlessness, light-headedness, numbness or tingly feeling, decreased urination, shallow breathing, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, irregular heartbeat, increased thirst, dark urine, jaundice, clay-colored stool etc. Contact your doctor if any of these side effects occur.

Headache, gas, mild nausea, loss of appetite, stomach ache, skin rash etc.  are some less serious side effects of Moduret.