What is metolazone?
Metolazone is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that helps prevent your body from absorbing too much salt, which can cause fluid retention.
Metolazone treats fluid retention (edema) in people with congestive heart failure, or a kidney disorder such as nephrotic syndrome. This medication is also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
Metolazone may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about metolazone?
Do not use this medication if you are unable to urinate, or if you have severe liver disease.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, asthma, allergies, gout, diabetes, or an allergy to sulfa drugs.
Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of metolazone.
Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink. In some cases, drinking too much liquid can be as unsafe as not drinking enough.
There are many other medicines that can interact with metolazone. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.
If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.
What should I discuss with my doctor before taking metolazone?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to metolazone, or if you have:
If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication. Before using metolazone, tell your doctor if you have:
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Metolazone can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.