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Chlorothiazide (brand names: Diuril®, Azide®, Saluric®) and hydrochlorothiazide (brand names: HydroDiuril®, Microzide®, Esidrix®, Urozide®) are thiazide diuretics used to treat nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (different from diabetes mellitus), high blood pressure, abdominal fluid retention, heart failure, and elevated magnesium levels.
Hydrochlorothiazide has been used to prevent the recurrence of calcium oxalate urinary stones. Its use in cats and dogs to treat nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, high blood pressure, fluid retention, or certain electrolyte imbalances is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine.
“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours and gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days; however, effects may not be noted outwardly, and laboratory tests may be needed to evaluate this medication’s effectiveness.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Chlorothiazide or hydrochlorothiazide may cause the following side effects:
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving chlorothiazide or hydrochlorothiazide and contact your veterinarian immediately:
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
DO NOT USE chlorothiazide or hydrochlorothiazide in pets that:
USE WITH EXTREME CAUTION in pets with:
USE WITH CAUTION in pets that:
Several medications should be used with caution when given with chlorothiazide or hydrochlorothiazide, including:
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.
Chlorothiazide/hydrochlorothiazide can interact with many laboratory tests including:
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Apr 3, 2025.
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11587 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223
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