Drug interactions
Hydrochlorothiazide + Willow bark
Severity: Minor
Hydrochlorothiazide and Willow bark: 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
Willow bark contains salicin, which is converted to salicylic acid, and salicylates may compete with thiazides for renal tubular secretion. Salicylates and NSAID-like compounds can also blunt diuretic and antihypertensive effects and affect renal function. Clinical significance with herbal doses is uncertain.
What this interaction means in plain words
Hydrochlorothiazide and Willow bark have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Competition for organic anion tubular secretion and possible prostaglandin inhibition by salicylates from willow bark.
What to do
Monitor blood pressure and renal function if willow bark is used regularly with hydrochlorothiazide. Avoid in patients with renal impairment or volume depletion.
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 Hydrochlorothiazide
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Hydrochlorothiazide with Willow bark?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Hydrochlorothiazide and Willow bark have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Willow bark contains salicin, which is converted to salicylic acid, and salicylates may compete with thiazides for renal tubular secretion. Salicylates and NSAID-like compounds can also blunt diuretic and antihypertensive effects and affect renal function. Clinical significance with herbal doses is uncertain.
How serious is the interaction between Hydrochlorothiazide and Willow bark?
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 blood pressure and renal function if willow bark is used regularly with hydrochlorothiazide. Avoid in patients with renal impairment or volume depletion.
What other medicines interact with Hydrochlorothiazide?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydrochlorothiazide with, for example, Dofetilide, Amifostine, Amiodarone. The full list is on the Hydrochlorothiazide page.
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