Chlorthalidone is a medicine that has been used for a long time to treat high blood pressure.
It helps lower blood pressure by removing extra salt and water from the body. This reduces the amount of fluid in the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
But a new study from Columbia University is raising some concerns about this medicine. The researchers looked at the medical records of more than 730,000 people who had high blood pressure over a 17-year period. They wanted to know how safe chlorthalidone really is.
They compared chlorthalidone with another common blood pressure drug called hydrochlorothiazide. Both medicines worked well to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. But they found that people taking chlorthalidone had more side effects.
One major problem was low potassium levels, also known as hypokalemia. Potassium is a mineral that helps your heart, muscles, and nerves work properly. If you don’t have enough potassium, you might feel tired, weak, or have muscle cramps. In serious cases, it can cause dangerous heart problems.
The study found that 6.3% of people taking chlorthalidone developed low potassium. Only 1.9% of people taking hydrochlorothiazide had this issue. That means people on chlorthalidone were three times more likely to have this problem.
The researchers also found that people on chlorthalidone were more likely to have other problems, like electrolyte imbalances and kidney issues.
This doesn’t mean that chlorthalidone is a bad medicine. Many people take it and do just fine. But it does mean that people taking this drug should have regular check-ups and blood tests. These tests can help catch problems early before they become serious.
If you’re taking chlorthalidone and feel very tired, weak, or have muscle cramps, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. Don’t stop taking the medicine on your own. Your doctor can help you decide if you should stay on it or try something else.
Doctors often choose chlorthalidone because it stays in the body longer and might control blood pressure better. But with this new research, some doctors may start to consider other options. It’s all about finding the right balance between benefits and risks.
Medicine can help, but healthy habits are just as important. Eating healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, cutting back on salt, and exercising regularly can all help control blood pressure. Avoiding smoking, drinking less alcohol, and managing stress are also great ways to protect your heart.
Scientists will keep studying medicines like chlorthalidone to learn more about how they affect the body over time. This study is a good reminder that even trusted drugs can have side effects. That’s why it’s so important to talk openly with your doctor and get regular check-ups.
If you take blood pressure medicine, stay informed, ask questions, and take care of yourself. Your heart—and your kidneys—will thank you.
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