MICROZIDE is indicated in the management of
hypertension either as the sole therapeutic agent, or in combination
with other antihypertensives. Unlike potassium sparing combination
diuretic products, MICROZIDE may be used in those patients in whom the
development of hyperkalemia cannot be risked, including patients taking
ACE inhibitors.
Usage in Pregnancy: The routine use
of diuretics in an otherwise healthy woman is inappropriate and exposes
mother and fetus to unnecessary hazard. Diuretics do not prevent
development of toxemia of pregnancy, and there is no satisfactory
evidence that they are useful in the treatment of developed toxemia.
Edema during pregnancy may arise from pathological causes or from
the physiologic and mechanical consequences of pregnancy. Diuretics are
indicated in pregnancy when edema is due to pathologic causes, just as
they are in the absence of pregnancy. Dependent edema in pregnancy
resulting from restriction of venous return by the expanded uterus is
properly treated through elevation of the lower extremities and use of
support hose; use of diuretics to lower intravascular volume in this
case is illogical and unnecessary. There is hypervolemia during normal
pregnancy which is harmful to neither the fetus nor the mother (in the
absence of cardiovascular disease), but which is associated with edema,
including generalized edema in the majority of pregnant women. If this
edema produces discomfort, increased recumbency will often provide
relief. In rare instances this edema may cause extreme discomfort which
is not relieved by rest. In these cases a short course of diuretics may
provide relief and may be appropriate.
