Generic Microzide

Introduction

Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide) is a thiazide‑type diuretic widely prescribed to manage elevated blood pressure and fluid retention. In Hong Kong, it is listed under the Pharmaceutical Service Division of the Department of Health and is commonly used as a first‑line option for hypertension, especially when cost considerations are paramount. The active compound, hydrochlorothiazide, belongs to the blood‑pressure and diuretic medication groups and is also employed off‑label for conditions such as calcium‑kidney stones. Its availability through our online pharmacy provides patients with a reliable, affordable route to obtain this essential therapy.

What is Microzide?

Microzide is a tablet formulation that contains the active ingredient hydrochlorothiazide 200 µg per milligram of the drug. It is manufactured by several reputable pharmaceutical companies, including Sanofi‑Genzyme and Mylan, under a marketing authorization that complies with Hong Kong’s regulatory standards. Hydrochlorothiazide is the same molecule found in well‑known brand names such as Esidrix, Hydrodiuril, and Microzide itself. While the brand name Microzide is recognized locally, the medication is also sold as a generic, offering comparable efficacy at lower cost.

How Microzide Works

Hydrochlorothiazide acts on the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron, the functional unit of the kidney. By inhibiting the sodium‑chloride symporter, it reduces reabsorption of Na⁺ and Cl⁻ ions. The ensuing natriuresis (excretion of sodium) draws water into the urine by osmotic forces, leading to a modest reduction in plasma volume. The decrease in extracellular fluid lowers cardiac preload, while long‑term adaptations—such as reduced peripheral vascular resistance—contribute to sustained blood‑pressure control. Onset of diuretic effect typically occurs within 2 hours, with peak natriuretic activity at 4–6 hours; the antihypertensive effect may be evident after several days of consistent dosing.

Conditions Treated with Microzide

• Essential hypertension – A leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity in Hong Kong; thiazide diuretics reduce stroke and heart‑failure risk when combined with lifestyle measures.
• Edema associated with congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or nephrotic syndrome – By promoting urinary fluid loss, Microzide alleviates peripheral swelling.
• Hypercalciuria and calcium‑kidney stones – Hydrochlorothiazide decreases urinary calcium excretion, helping prevent stone recurrence.

Clinical guidelines from the Hong Kong College of Cardiology endorse thiazide diuretics as a cost‑effective first‑line therapy for most adults with stage 1–2 hypertension, especially when renal function is preserved (eGFR ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m²).

Suitable Candidates for Microzide Treatment

Microzide is appropriate for adult patients who:

• Have newly diagnosed or uncontrolled essential hypertension and require a low‑cost oral agent.
• Exhibit mild‑to‑moderate fluid overload where aggressive loop‑diuretic therapy is unnecessary.
• Need prophylaxis against calcium‑containing renal calculi, particularly those with a history of recurrent stones.

Contra‑indications or cautionary situations include:

• Known hypersensitivity to hydrochlorothiazide or any thiazide class component.
• Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²) where diuretic efficacy is markedly reduced.
• Gout or a history of hyperuricemia, as thiazides can raise serum uric acid.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women—hydrochlorothiazide is classified as pregnancy category C and should only be used when benefits outweigh potential risks.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Electrolyte disturbances: hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypomagnesemia.
• Increased uric acid levels: may precipitate gout attacks.
• Mild dehydration and orthostatic dizziness, especially after the first dose.

Rare

• Photosensitivity reactions manifesting as rash or sunburn‑like lesions.
• Pancreatitis – isolated case reports have described elevated pancreatic enzymes.
• Severe hyponatremia leading to confusion or seizures, predominantly in elderly patients with excessive water intake.

Serious

Acute interstitial nephritis – characterized by fever, rash, eosinophilia, and rising creatinine.

• Life‑threatening electrolyte imbalance (e.g., severe hypokalemia) that can provoke cardiac arrhythmias.
• Allergic anaphylaxis – rare but warrants immediate emergency care.

Clinically Relevant Drug–Drug Interactions

• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): attenuate the diuretic and antihypertensive effects.
• Lithium: thiazides reduce lithium clearance, increasing the risk of toxicity; lithium doses should be re‑evaluated.
• ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and β‑blockers: synergistic blood‑pressure lowering may necessitate dose adjustments to avoid hypotension.
• Antidiabetic agents (e.g., insulin, sulfonylureas): thiazides can impair glucose tolerance, potentially requiring closer glycaemic monitoring.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all concomitant medicines, including over‑the‑counter supplements such as potassium‑rich herbal products.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard adult dose: 12.5 mg–25 mg once daily in the morning. For resistant hypertension, the dose may be escalated to 50 mg once daily, provided renal function is adequate.
• Administration: Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. Taking the dose in the early morning minimizes nocturnal diuresis.
• Missed dose: If remembered within 12 hours, take the dose immediately; otherwise, skip and resume the regular schedule. Do not double‑dose.
• Overdose: Symptoms may include severe dehydration, electrolyte abnormalities, and hypotension. Immediate medical evaluation is essential; treatment focuses on volume replacement with isotonic saline and correction of electrolyte disturbances.

Precautions:

• Avoid excessive alcohol, which can potentiate hypotensive effects.
• Limit intake of high‑potassium foods if concurrent potassium‑sparing agents are prescribed.
• Patients with hepatic disease should be monitored for hyponatremia.

Buying Microzide from Our Online Pharmacy

Microzide can be ordered securely from our online pharmacy in Hong Kong. We specialize in providing verified, high‑quality generic hydrochlorothiazide at prices close to manufacturer cost, helping reduce the financial burden on patients who lack comprehensive insurance coverage. Key benefits include:

• Affordable pricing – competitive wholesale rates passed directly to the consumer.
• Verified quality – all batches are sourced from licensed overseas manufacturers with GMP certification.
• Guaranteed delivery – discreet packaging with express options (delivery within 7 days) and standard airmail (~3 weeks).
• Pharmacy broker service – we partner with internationally accredited pharmacies, ensuring compliance with Hong Kong import regulations while preserving patient privacy.

Our platform is designed for adults seeking a reliable, cost‑effective supply of essential medicines without compromising safety or efficacy.

FAQ

• Is Microzide available in both brand‑name and generic forms in Hong Kong?
  Yes. The brand name Microzide and several generic versions containing the same active compound, hydrochlorothiazide, are marketed in Hong Kong. Generic products typically cost less while providing identical therapeutic outcomes.

• What should I do with Microzide tablets if I travel internationally?
  Keep the medication in its original blister pack, store it at room temperature, and carry a copy of the prescription or a physician’s letter if required by customs. Avoid exposing the tablets to extreme heat or humidity during travel.

• Does Microzide require refrigeration or any special storage conditions?
  No. Hydrochlorothiazide tablets should be stored at 15 °C–30 °C (59 °F–86 °F), protected from light, moisture, and direct heat. A standard medicine cabinet away from the bathroom is suitable.

• Are there any inactive ingredients in Microzide that could cause allergic reactions?
  Common excipients include lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate. Patients with known lactose intolerance or hypersensitivity to these substances should discuss alternatives with a healthcare professional.

• Can Microzide be imported for personal use without a prescription in Hong Kong?
  Hong Kong’s import regulations generally require a valid prescription for prescription‑only medicines. Importing without one may lead to customs seizure. Our pharmacy ensures compliance by obtaining the necessary documentation from licensed overseas partners.

• Do Asian populations have any specific safety warnings for Hydrochlorothiazide?
  Studies indicate a slightly higher incidence of hyponatremia in older Asian patients, possibly related to dietary sodium intake. Clinicians often monitor serum electrolytes more closely in this demographic.

• How does Microzide compare to older diuretics such as bendroflumethiazide?
  Both are thiazide‑type agents, but hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) has a longer half‑life and is more widely studied in large hypertension trials. Bendroflumethiazide may be preferred in patients requiring a shorter‑acting diuretic effect.

• What is the typical time frame for blood‑pressure reduction after starting Microzide?
  A modest reduction (5–10 mmHg systolic) can be observed within 1–2 weeks, with maximal effect generally reached after 4–6 weeks of consistent therapy.

• Is there any impact of coffee or caffeine on the effectiveness of Microzide?
  Caffeine has mild diuretic properties and may slightly augment urine output, but it does not significantly alter the antihypertensive action of hydrochlorothiazide. Moderate coffee consumption is therefore permissible.

• Can I take herbal supplements such as licorice root together with Microzide?
  Licorice root can cause sodium retention and potassium loss, counteracting the diuretic effect and increasing the risk of hypokalemia. Discuss any herbal products with your clinician before combining them with Microzide.

Glossary

Thiazide diuretic

A class of medications that promote sodium and water excretion by blocking the Na⁺‑Cl⁻ symporter in the distal convoluted tubule of the kidney.

Natriuresis

The process of excreting sodium in the urine, which draws water with it and reduces extracellular fluid volume.

Electrolyte imbalance

A disturbance in the normal concentrations of minerals such as potassium, sodium, or magnesium in the blood, which can affect muscle and nerve function.

eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)

A calculated measure of kidney function that estimates how well the kidneys filter blood, expressed in mL/min/1.73 m².

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Microzide is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Microzide for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.