Maxide is a potassium-SPARING diuretic called triamterene.
Diuretics are incredibly effective anti-hypertensive meds and if well-tolerated are the mainstay therapy for high blood pressure.
However, abnormal elevation of serum potassium levels can occur with all potassium-sparing agents, including triamterene. Hyperkalemia (too much potassium in blood) is more likely to occur in patients with kidney impairment, and diabetes (even without evidence of renal impairment), elderly or severely ill patients. Hyperkalemia can be pretty serious so your doctor MUST monitor your electrolytes at frequent intervals, (even if you are not experiencing any side effects.) You should also get a blood test when dosages are changed or with any illness that may influence renal function.
See how you do...I presume your doctor wants to see you in about a week to see how the Maxide is working. You may not need any additional meds at all. Do NOT use any potassium supplements while on this drug, unless your doctor finds, after blood tests that your potassium is low. This can happen in spite of it being potassium "sparing".
If you experience thirst, dizziness, abnormal fatigue, you might be having some kind of electrolyte imbalance, which this simple blood test would reveal immediately.
Don't anticipate though! Many people do GREAT on one low dose pill only, without any problems whatsoever.
Good luck!
zuzu xxx
[This message has been edited by zuzu8 (edited 10-07-2003).]
| 
Need Maxzide info, please 
Linear Mode
