Dizzy Spells -- Mixing of Atenolol and Triamterene?

[onnason]

Hi -- yesterday, I decided to take my Triamterene in the AM after breakfast along with my Atenolol. I did this because I've noticed some slight swelling in my feet lately (I'm very overweight). Anyway, I take 50 mg. Atenolol in the AM and 37.5 mg. Triamterene. About 2 hours after taking the medication, WHILE DRIVING, the car in front of me doubled and started spinning. I had to pull over (my 7 year old was with me). The episode passed in about 2 minutes, and it did not return. Could it be that my pressure dropped too low with all the meds together? Although I was prescribed the Triamterene in the AM, I've been taking it in the PM with only 25 mg. Atenolol (75 mg. dose daily Atenolol). Any thoughts?

P.s. I'm a HUGE hypochondriac, but my anxiety was incredibly low yesterday. I don't think this was anxiety related, but I'm terrified to call the doctor again (besides, she doesn't take me seriously as it is). Thanks so much.

[zuzu8]

It's possible that your BP went too low when you took both meds at once, but I'm not positive. If you are so anxious about talking to your doctor and feel you get the brush-off, absolutely find someone you're not intimidated by. These meds are serious business and you should be able to talk freely about your concerns!
Go back to the old regimen for the time being, (there's a reason I presume that your doc originally wanted you to take both at once (splitting them may not be giving you adequate blood levels...).but again that's a question for the doc.....

The dizziness could have been a fluke, but before trying the triamterene in the AM again, call her, and "fess up". . I can't believe she'll throw a hissy fit if you tell her you've been splitting it.

"Terrified" is the word you used about talking to her. Her reaction to your call will determine whether you might want to find someone else. It's a good "test".
zuzu xx



[This message has been edited by zuzu8 (edited 09-30-2003).]