ESIMIL

Drug Name: ESIMIL

ESIMIL DESCRIPTION:
GUANETHIDINE WITH HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE - ORAL (gwan-ETH-eh-deen WITH HI-dro-klor-oh-THIGH-uh-zide)

COMMON ESIMIL BRAND NAME(S):
Esimil

ESIMIL SIDE EFFECTS:
Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, lightheadedness, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue or weakness may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Dry mouth, nasal congestion, weight gain, sun sensitivity, muscle tremors, nightmares, decreased sexual desire or ability and trouble urinating may also occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. ESIMIL increases urination. Expect this effect. 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, depression, tingling of the hands or feet, unusual weakness, joint pain, muscle cramps, unusual bleeding or bruising, jaundice, severe stomach upset or vomiting while taking ESIMIL. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE ESIMIL:
ESIMIL: Take ESIMIL by mouth with food or milk as directed. Try to take it at the same time each day so you get into the habit of taking it. Do not stop taking ESIMIL without first consulting your doctor. It is important to continue taking ESIMIL even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

ESIMIL WARNING:
ESIMIL can frequently cause dizziness and weakness which may lead to fainting, especially when first starting ESIMIL. Symptoms occur more often upon awakening and may increase during hot weather, exercise, or when drinking alcohol. To avoid fainting do not stand quickly and avoid standing or exercising for long periods of time. This combination product must not be the first treatment used to control high blood pressure.

ESIMIL USES:
Guanethidine helps to widen arteries and veins so blood flows better. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a diuretic "water pill", that rids the body of excess fluid. This combination medication is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

ESIMIL PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing kidney disease, heart disease, ulcer disease, depression, asthma, diabetes, gout, blood disease or if you have any allergies especially to sulfa medications. ESIMIL may increase your sensitivity to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing and a sun screen when outdoors. ESIMIL should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of ESIMIL are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

ESIMIL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially any medication for your heart, blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or depression. Do not take any medication for cough, colds, hay fever, allergies or weight control without first checking with your doctor or pharmacist. These medications may contain ingredients which can increase blood pressure. Diabetics must be aware that ESIMIL may affect blood sugar levels. Discuss this with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

ESIMIL OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include fainting or severe dizziness, unusually slow pulse, nausea, and vomiting.

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

MISSED ESIMIL 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.

ESIMIL 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.