Lozol (indapamide) is a thiazide-like diuretic medication prescribed for the management of hypertension and edema associated with congestive heart failure. It works by helping the kidneys remove excess water and salt from the body, thereby reducing fluid volume and lowering blood pressure. As a first-line or adjunctive therapy, it is valued for its once-daily dosing and favorable efficacy profile in a wide range of patient populations. Its mechanism not only addresses fluid retention but also contributes to long-term cardiovascular risk reduction when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Indapamide 1.25 mg or 2.5 mg
• Drug Class: Thiazide-like diuretic
• Dosage Form: Oral tablet
• Dosing Frequency: Once daily
• Prescription Status: Prescription-only medication
• Onset of Action: Diuretic effect within 2 hours; antihypertensive effect may take several weeks
• Duration of Action: Up to 24 hours

Benefits

• Effectively lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney damage.
• Reduces edema (swelling) caused by excess fluid in patients with congestive heart failure.
• Convenient once-daily dosing supports medication adherence and simplifies treatment regimens.
• May be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents for synergistic effects.
• Helps maintain electrolyte balance with a lower risk of hypokalemia compared to some other diuretics when used at standard doses.
• Contributes to long-term cardiovascular protection by mitigating hypertension-related organ damage.

Common use

Lozol is primarily indicated for the treatment of essential hypertension. It is also used to manage salt and fluid retention associated with congestive heart failure. Physicians may prescribe it off-label in certain cases of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus or calcium nephrolithiasis, based on individual patient assessment. It is often incorporated into treatment plans that include lifestyle modifications such as sodium restriction, weight management, and regular physical activity.

Dosage and direction

The recommended initial dose for hypertension or edema is 2.5 mg once daily, preferably taken in the morning. If response is inadequate after one week, the dose may be increased to 5 mg once daily. For maintenance, some patients may be controlled on 1.25 mg daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, with or without food. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for elderly patients or those with renal impairment. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, serum electrolytes, and renal function is advised during therapy.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for signs of fluid and electrolyte imbalance, particularly hypokalemia, hyponatremia, and hypochloremic alkalosis. Caution is advised in patients with severe renal disease, impaired hepatic function, or progressive liver disease. Use with care in patients with diabetes, gout, or systemic lupus erythematosus. Sun exposure should be limited due to potential photosensitivity reactions. Patients should avoid abrupt discontinuation without medical supervision.

Contraindications

Lozol is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to indapamide or other sulfonamide-derived drugs. It should not be used in patients with anuria, severe renal failure (CrCl <30 mL/min), or hepatic encephalopathy. Concomitant use with drugs that prolong the QT interval is not recommended. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential fetal harm and should not be used during breastfeeding.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps or weakness, and gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. Orthostatic hypotension may occur, particularly in volume-depleted patients. Less frequently, rash, photosensitivity, impotence, and blurred vision have been reported. Rare but serious adverse effects include severe electrolyte imbalances, pancreatitis, and blood dyscrasias. Patients should report any persistent or severe symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Drug interaction

Lozol may interact with other antihypertensive agents, potentiating their effects. Concurrent use with corticosteroids, ACTH, or amphotericin B may increase the risk of hypokalemia. It may reduce the effect of oral antidiabetic drugs. NSAIDs can diminish the antihypertensive and diuretic efficacy. Concomitant use with lithium may increase lithium toxicity risk. QT-prolonging agents (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics) should be used with caution. Always inform your physician of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. Consistent daily dosing is important for maintaining stable blood pressure control.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include profound electrolyte disturbances (especially hypokalemia), dehydration, hypotension, drowsiness, confusion, and gastrointestinal disturbances. In severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias or shock may occur. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, focusing on electrolyte correction and fluid replacement. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion was recent. There is no specific antidote; hemodialysis is not effective for removal of indapamide.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed. Do not store in bathrooms or near sinks. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Do not initiate, discontinue, or change dosage of any medication without medical supervision. Individual responses to medication may vary based on health status, concomitant conditions, and other factors.

Reviews

Clinical studies and post-marketing surveillance demonstrate Lozol’s efficacy in blood pressure reduction and edema management, with many patients achieving target BP goals. Physicians note its generally favorable side effect profile and once-daily convenience. Some patients report improved quality of life due to better symptom control. However, individual experiences vary, and regular monitoring is essential to optimize therapeutic outcomes and manage potential adverse effects.