COMBIPRES

Drug Name: COMBIPRES

COMBIPRES DESCRIPTION:
CLONIDINE W/CHLORTHALIDONE - ORAL (KLAHN-eh-deen WITH klor-THAL-eh-doan)

COMMON COMBIPRES BRAND NAME(S):
Combipres

COMBIPRES SIDE EFFECTS:
Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, nausea, loss of taste, flushing, fatigue, dry mouth or increased urination may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Weight gain, loss of appetite, anxiety, nervousness, nightmares, decreased sexual desire or ability, trouble urinating and muscle pain may also occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages and avoid overheating which will aggravate these effects. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, a rapid pulse, difficulty breathing, skin rash, tingling of the hands or feet, jaundice (yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine). COMBIPRES can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE COMBIPRES:
COMBIPRES: Take COMBIPRES exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking COMBIPRES without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. It is important to continue taking COMBIPRES even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

COMBIPRES USES:
Clonidine helps to widen arteries and veins so blood flows better. Chlorthalidone is a diuretic (water pill) that helps rid the body of excess fluid. This combination medication is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

COMBIPRES PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, heart disease, blood disorders, eye problems, allergies. COMBIPRES should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of COMBIPRES are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

COMBIPRES DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially of: blood pressure drugs, antidepressants. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

COMBIPRES OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, weakness, dizziness, sleepiness, irritability, slow heartbeat, and slowed breathing.

COMBIPRES NOTES:
It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking COMBIPRES. Learn how to take your blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist.

MISSED COMBIPRES DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

COMBIPRES STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.