A Review of the Pharmacology and Clinical Observations of Hydrochlorothiazide

Abstract

Interest in the treatment of edema and arterial hypertension has gained tremendous impetus since the introduction of the benzothiadiazine group of diuretic agents. The relative ease and satisfaction with the treatment of various states of edema which chlorothiazide has produced has stimulated investigation of other derivatives of the benzothiazide structure. At the same time problems peculiar to the use of these drugs have arisen, and the need for more information relative to toxicity, potential electrolyte depletion and frequency of administration is apparent. A review of our experiences with the clinical and pharmacological effects of hydrochlorothiazide* is presented.^1,2 Hydrochlorothiazide differs from chlorothiazide by the addition of two hydrogen atoms to the one unsaturated bond in the heterocyclic ring of chlorothiazide (Fig. 1). Methods and Materials 1. Outpatient Study. —An evaluation of the diuretic effect of hydrochlorothiazide in a group of ambulatory cardiac patients attending our diuretic clinic was made. Twenty