ZIAC

Drug Name: ZIAC

ZIAC DESCRIPTION:
BETA-BLOCKERS W/THIAZIDE DIURETICS - ORAL

COMMON ZIAC BRAND NAME(S):
Corzide, Inderide LA, Tenoretic

ZIAC SIDE EFFECTS:
You may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness or blurred vision as your body adjusts to the medication. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness. Because beta-blockers reduce blood circulation to the extremities, your hands and feet may be more susceptible to cold. Thiazide diuretics can cause potassium loss from the body. It is advisable to eat foods or drink liquids high in potassium such as citrus juice, bananas, melons, raisins and dates. Use of salt substitutes also help prevent potassium loss. Sometimes potassium supplement medication may be prescribed by your doctor. Inform your doctor if you develop breathing difficulty, easy bruising or bleeding, swollen hands or feet, confusion or depression, excessive thirst, muscle cramps, yellowing of the eyes or skin or a sore throat while taking ZIAC. ZIAC may increase sensitivity to the sun. 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 ZIAC:
ZIAC: Take ZIAC exactly as prescribed. Do not adjust the dose without consulting your doctor. Take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Because ZIAC increases urination, avoid taking a dose in the late evening before bedtime. Do not suddenly stop taking ZIAC without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped.

ZIAC WARNING:
If you have angina or have had heart problems, do not suddenly stop using ZIAC without first consulting your doctor. If your doctor decides you should no longer use this medication, you must stop ZIAC gradually according to your doctor's instructions.

ZIAC USES:
This combination medication is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Beta-blockers slow the heart rate. Thiazide diuretics, also known as "water pills", reduce fluid accumulation in the body by increasing urination.

ZIAC PRECAUTIONS:
You may want to check your pulse everyday while taking ZIAC. Discuss with your doctor what changes in your pulse rate mean. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to sulfa drugs. You may also be allergic to ZIAC. ZIAC is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for details. ZIAC passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

ZIAC DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you may use, especially any other beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) or diuretics ("water pills"). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

ZIAC OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include slow heartbeat, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, drowsiness, unconsciousness, seizures, slow or shallow breathing, confusion, or muscle weakness.

MISSED ZIAC DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost 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.

ZIAC STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. 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.