Mykrox

1 What is Mykrox?

Brand: Mykrox

Generic: Metolazone

Brand name:

Mykrox

Mykrox is used in the treatment of edema (fluid retention) caused by congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of liver and kidney failure. It is a thiazide diuretic (water pill).

It prevents absorption of salt in the kidney and increases excretion of water in urine and so decreasing amount of water (fluids) in the body. High level of fluids may put pressure on vessels causing an increase in blood pressure.

It is also used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It is available in the form of a tablet, only with doctor’s prescription.

2 What to Know Before Using

Before using Mykrox, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it.

Allergy

Inform your doctor if you are allergic to any food, preservatives, dyes, or had an allergic reaction when you used this drug before.

Children

There are no adequate studies were done which proves Metolazone harmful effects in children, However, safety and efficacy have not been established.

Elderly

This medicine does not cause any different side effects or problem than it does in younger adults. However, it should be used with caution in a patient who has kidney or liver diseases.

Pregnancy

It is a category B drug. It is safe in pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Metolazone can pass into breast milk and can harm your baby. Do not breast-feed while using it. If you are using it while nursing, discuss the potential risks with your doctor.

Drug Interactions

Metolazone may interact with other drugs. Your doctor should be informed of any other medicines which you are taking. He may want to change the dosage or drug.
Some of them are listed below,

  • Ibuprofen
  • Naproxen
  • Enalapril
  • Diazoxide
  • Ketanserin,
  • Furosemide
  • Allopurinol
  • Amantadine
  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Diazoxide
  • Digoxin
  • Ketanserin
  • Vecuronium

Other Medical Conditions

Several other conditions may reduce its effectiveness.

Make sure you inform your doctor of conditions such as:

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus
  • Anuria (not able to pass urine)
  • Asthma
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney diseases
  • Liver disease,
  • Hypercalcemia (high calcium in the blood)
  • Hyperuricemia (high uric acid in the blood)
  • Hypochloremia (low chloride in the blood)
  • Hyponatremia (low blood sodium)
  • Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
  • Gout

3 Proper Usage

Proper usage of Mykrox requires strict adherence to your doctor’s orders. Mykrox only helps in reducing blood pressure. It does not cure blood pressure related problems.

It is very important to continue to take medicine as directed in order to keep blood pressure within normal range. You may need to use it for the rest of your life.

You should drink a large amount of water while using Mykrox. With Mykrox you should also control your weight and diet. Avoid foods which are high in salt.

Dosage

It is different for different patients. Dosage mentioned below is an average dose. You must follow your doctor’s command.

For fluid retention (edema)

  • Adults: The usual dose is 5 to 20 milligrams (mg) once a day.
  • Children: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

For high blood pressure

  • Adults: The usual dose is 2.5 to 5 mg once a day.
  • Children: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it almost a time for your next dose skips the missed dose and continue your daily schedule. Do not double the dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature. Keep it away from children.

4 Precautions to Take

Before using Mykrox, there are some precautions you must take. Your doctor should check your daily progress at regular visits. He/she may do a blood and urine test. Mykrox can cause hypokalemia (potassium loss).

Inform your doctor right away if you have symptoms such as:

  • convulsions or seizures
  • decreased urine
  • drowsiness
  • dry mouth
  • excessive thirst
  • increased heart rate or pulse
  • muscle pains or cramps
  • nausea or vomiting
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Metolazone may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or light-headedness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use it with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

Metolazone can interfere with the results of a parathyroid test. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Metolazone. It may change blood sugar level. Keep a track of your sugar levels.

5 Potential Side Effects

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Mykrox. Some people may experience none or minor side effects.

Consult with your doctor if they become problematic or frequent:

More common are:

Symptoms of overdose are:

  • Fainting
  • Irregular, fast or slow, or shallow breathing
  • Pale or blue lips, fingernails, or skin
  • Unusual drowsiness, dullness, tiredness, weakness, or feeling of sluggishness.
  • Weakness and heaviness of legs.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

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