Indapamide

Indapamide

Cardiovascular Prescription only ATC code: C03BA11

What it is

Indapamide is a thiazide-like diuretic. It acts on the distal tubule of the kidney to reduce sodium and water reabsorption, and it also relaxes vascular smooth muscle, so blood pressure falls by more than the fluid loss alone would explain. It is used for high blood pressure and for fluid retention.

Typical dose
1.5–2.5 mg
1× a day
Times
Any time
Morning

Used for

  • Hypertension
  • Oedema

What to know while taking it

It can be taken with or without food and is normally a morning medicine, since taking it later means being woken to pass urine. Losses run to potassium and magnesium as well as water, so potassium and sodium are checked, along with uric acid, glucose and creatinine, which this class can move. Low potassium makes the heart more sensitive to digoxin, which is why the combination is watched closely. Adequate fluid matters, and the skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight, so strong sun is best avoided.

When to see a doctor

Muscle cramps, marked weakness, palpitations, confusion or fainting can point to a low potassium or sodium level and are reasons to see a doctor. The same applies to a painful swollen joint suggesting gout, or to signs of dehydration during hot weather or a stomach upset.

Worth knowing

  • Can lower potassium
  • Drink enough water
  • Avoid strong sun

Interacts with

Markers to watch

Nutrients affected

  • potassium — depleted by (Potassium)
  • magnesium — depleted by (Glucose, HOMA-IR, Magnesium)

Reference information, not medical advice. Discuss any change with your doctor.