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What are metolazone extended-release tablets?

METOLAZONE (Zaroxolyn®) is a diuretic. Diuretics increase the amount of urine passed, which causes the body to lose water and salt. Metolazone helps to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is not a cure. It also reduces the swelling and water retention caused by various medical conditions, such as heart, liver, or kidney disease. Different brands of metolazone tablets such as Zaroxolyn® and Mykrox® are not interchangeable. A generic version of Zaroxolyn® is available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• diabetes
• gout
• high levels of blood calcium
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• pancreatitis
• systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• an unusual or allergic reaction to metolazone, sulfa drugs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take metolazone extended-release tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets whole with a drink of water; do not crush or chew. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Remember that you will need to pass urine frequently after taking metolazone. Do not take your doses at a time of day that will cause you problems. Do not take at bedtime.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with metolazone?

• amphotericin B
• antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen)
• cholestyramine or colestipol
• cisplatin
• dofetilide
• heart medicines to control the heart rhythm such as digoxin
• hormones such as cortisone, fludrocortisone, hydrocortisone, prednisone
• lithium
• medicines for high blood pressure
• medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
• medicines for diabetes
• medicines that relax muscles for surgery
• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (Azilect®, Eldepryl®, Emsam®, Marplan®, Nardil®, Parnate®, Zelapar™)
• probenecid
• water pills

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking metolazone?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure regularly. Ask your prescriber or health care professional what your blood pressure should be, and when you should contact him or her. You must not get dehydrated, ask your prescriber or health care professional how much fluid you need to drink a day. Do not stop taking metolazone except on your prescriber's advice.

There are different brands of metolazone. They are not the same and you must not change your regular brand without your prescriber's advice.

Watch your diet while you are taking metolazone. Ask your prescriber or health care professional about both potassium and sodium intake. Metolazone can make your body lose potassium and you may need an extra supply. Too high or too low potassium can cause problems. Some foods have a high potassium content such as bananas, coconuts, dates, figs, prunes, apricots, peaches, grapefruit juice, tomato juice, and orange juice.

You may get dizzy or lightheaded. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how metolazone affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can make you lightheaded, dizzy and increase confusion. Avoid or limit intake of alcoholic drinks.

Metolazone may make your skin more sensitive to sun or ultraviolet light. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen (at least SPF 15). Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths.

If you are going to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking metolazone.

Metolazone can increase the amount of sugar in blood or urine. If you are a diabetic keep a close check on blood and urine sugar.

What side effects may I notice from taking metolazone?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
• change in your vision (such as blurred vision)
• chest pain, irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
• lower back or side pain
• numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• severe stomach upset, pain, or cramps
• unusual rash, bleeding or bruising, or pinpoint red spots on the skin
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• yellowing of the eyes or skin
More Common:
• cough or hoarseness
• dizziness, fainting spells, or lightheadedness
• fever or chills
• increased thirst which does not go away
• joint pain, or muscle pain, cramps
• mood changes
• mouth sores
• nausea, vomiting
• pain or difficulty passing urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• constipation or diarrhea
• decreased sexual ability
• dry mouth
• increased sensitivity to the sun
• loss of appetite
• upset stomach

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature, between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.