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Dutoprol

Generic name: hydrochlorothiazide and metoprolol [HYE-droe-klor-oh-THYE-a-zide-and-me-TOE-proe-lole]
Brand names: Lopressor HCT, Dutoprol
Drug class: beta-blockers with thiazides

What is Dutoprol?

Hydrochlorothiazide works as a diuretic. Metoprolol is a beta-blocker. Dutoprol is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Dutoprol may also be utilized in ways not covered in this guide.

Side effects of Dutoprol

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling to lips, face or throat - seek medical assistance immediately!

Dutoprol can cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Bronchospasm is a condition that causes difficulty breathing, wheezing, and chest tightness.
  • Slow heart rate. Weak pulse, fainting, and slow breathing.
  • Vision problems such as blurriness, eye discomfort or seeing halos around lights could indicate poor eye health and may require treatment to restore sight to an optimal state.
  • Constipation (leg cramps); low sodium level (fluttering or tingling in the chest); numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness.
  • Low sodium level: headache, confusion, slurred words, severe weakness and vomiting, lack of coordination, feeling unsteady.

Dutoprol side effects may include:

  • Tired feeling
  • Sore throat and stuffy nose.

There may be other side effects.Call your physician if experiencing side effects; alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 if reporting side effects is necessary.

Warnings

Dutoprol should not be used if you suffer from a serious condition, such as "sick-sinus syndrome" or an "AV block", or if you faint due to slow heartbeats. Dutoprol should not be used if you cannot urinate. Even if you feel fine, do not suddenly stop taking this medication without consulting with your physician first - suddenly stopping can have serious health ramifications, including potentially life-threatening or severe cardiac issues. For best results when decreasing dosage levels consult with a licensed healthcare practitioner about cutting back or changing them gradually.

Before you take this drug

This medicine should not be used if:

  • If you suffer from a serious condition of the heart, such as "sick-sinus syndrome" or an "AV block", or if your blood cannot be pumped properly by your heart (unless you are wearing a pacemaker),
  • You fainted because of slow heartbeats.
  • Heart failure that is severe or uncontrollable
  • An allergy to sulfa drugs
  • If you're unable to urinate,

Inform your physician of any of the following issues:

  • Congestive heart failure;
  • Slow heartbeats
  • Blood circulation problems
  • Asthma or other breathing disorders;
  • Peripheral arterial disease, such as raynaud syndrome.
  • Diabetes;
  • A thyroid disorder
  • Kidney disease (or dialysis if you have it);
  • Pheochromocytoma
  • Glaucoma;
  • Lupus;
  • Gout;
  • High cholesterol or triglycerides

Notify your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or nursing. Dutoprol should not be used by anyone under the age of 18.

How to take Dutoprol?

Read and follow all instructions or guides provided with your medication, such as dosage instructions. It may change sometimes; therefore it's essential that you take it exactly as prescribed by your physician. Dutoprol can be taken either with or without food. You may experience low blood pressure due to vomiting, diarrhea, or heavy sweating. Vomiting, diarrhea, or heavy sweating are all examples. If you have diarrhea or vomiting, call your doctor. You will also need frequent blood tests. Blood tests may be required frequently. Check your blood sugar if you have diabetes. Dutoprol may make it more difficult for you to detect low levels of blood sugar. You should not alter your medication schedule or dose without consulting your doctor. Tell your surgeon that you use Dutoprol before you have surgery. Even if you are feeling well, continue to use Dutoprol according to the instructions. High blood pressure can often be symptomless. Blood pressure medication may be needed for the rest of your life. Dutoprol should never be abruptly discontinued even if it appears to be working well; abrupt discontinuance can result in severe cardiac problems or even death, so please follow your physician's advice in terms of dose reduction and storage conditions - at room temperature away from heat or moisture.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately if you suspect poisoning. Seek medical assistance immediately as well. Overdose symptoms include a fast or slow heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or fainting.

What should be avoided?

Dutoprol can affect your reaction time. Avoid driving and other hazardous activities until you are sure of how they will affect you. You may have impaired reactions. You may feel dizzy if you get up quickly from a seated or lying position. Alcohol consumption can have side effects when taken with this medication. Avoid overheating or dehydration during exercise and hot weather. Follow your doctor's recommendations regarding how much and which liquids to drink; overdrinking could be just as detrimental. Hydrochlorothiazide increases your risk for skin cancer. When possible, try to stay out of tanning beds or direct sunlight; when outdoors wear protective clothing and apply SPF 30 sunscreen. Your physician may advise regular skin checks.

Interaction with other drug

Tell your doctor about your other medications, including:

  • Cholestyramine, colestipol;
  • Clonidine;
  • Digoxin;
  • Diltiazem, verapamil;
  • epinephrine
  • Lithium;
  • Mao inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection and other mao blockers such as phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine among many others;
  • Nsaids (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) include aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, meloxicam, and others.

This list is incomplete. Dutoprol may be affected by other drugs, including vitamins, herbal products, prescription medicines, and over-the-counter medicines. This list does not encompass every potential drug-drug interaction.