Drug interactions
Chlorothiazide + Triamterene
Severity: Minor
Chlorothiazide and Triamterene: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Chlorothiazide promotes potassium loss while triamterene retains potassium, so the two are often combined to maintain normal potassium. Potassium can still deviate in either direction, especially in renal impairment.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chlorothiazide and Triamterene have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Chlorothiazide belongs to Cardiovascular; Triamterene belongs to Cardiovascular.
Why it happens
Opposing renal potassium handling: thiazide-induced kaliuresis versus ENaC blockade by triamterene.
What to do
Monitor serum potassium and sodium periodically, especially at initiation and with renal impairment. Avoid additional potassium supplements.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Triamterene
- Amiloride + Triamterene Contraindicated
- Eplerenone + Triamterene Contraindicated
- Potassium citrate / citric acid + Triamterene Contraindicated
- Potassium citrate + Triamterene Contraindicated
- Spironolactone + Triamterene Contraindicated
- Aceclofenac + Triamterene Major
Other interactions of Chlorothiazide
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chlorothiazide with Triamterene?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Chlorothiazide and Triamterene have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Chlorothiazide promotes potassium loss while triamterene retains potassium, so the two are often combined to maintain normal potassium. Potassium can still deviate in either direction, especially in renal impairment.
How serious is the interaction between Chlorothiazide and Triamterene?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor serum potassium and sodium periodically, especially at initiation and with renal impairment. Avoid additional potassium supplements.
What other medicines interact with Triamterene?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Triamterene with, for example, Amiloride, Eplerenone, Potassium citrate / citric acid. The full list is on the Triamterene page.
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