Lozol (indapamide) is a thiazide-like diuretic medication specifically designed for the management of hypertension and edema associated with congestive heart failure. As a first-line antihypertensive agent, it works by promoting the excretion of sodium and water from the body, thereby reducing blood volume and peripheral vascular resistance. Its proven efficacy, favorable safety profile, and once-daily dosing regimen make it a cornerstone in cardiovascular risk management protocols prescribed by healthcare professionals worldwide.

Features

• Active ingredient: Indapamide 1.25 mg or 2.5 mg
• Thiazide-like diuretic classification
• Once-daily oral administration
• Bioavailability: Approximately 93%
• Protein binding: 71-79%
• Elimination half-life: 14-18 hours
• Onset of diuretic action: 1-2 hours
• Peak effect: 2-3 hours
• Duration of action: Up to 24 hours

Benefits

• Effectively lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure through dual mechanism of action
• Reduces cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in hypertensive patients
• Minimizes fluid retention in congestive heart failure
• Once-daily dosing improves medication adherence
• Lower risk of hypokalemia compared to conventional thiazides
• Proven long-term safety and efficacy in clinical trials

Common use

Lozol is primarily indicated for the management of essential hypertension, either as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. It is also prescribed for the treatment of salt and fluid retention associated with congestive heart failure. The medication is particularly valuable in patients who require gentle diuresis without significant electrolyte disturbances. Clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness across various patient populations, including elderly patients and those with mild to moderate renal impairment.

Dosage and direction

The recommended initial dosage for hypertension is 1.25 mg once daily, preferably taken in the morning. Depending on therapeutic response, the dosage may be increased to 2.5 mg once daily after 4 weeks of treatment. For edema in congestive heart failure, the initial dose is 2.5 mg once daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, with or without food. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, serum electrolytes, and renal function is recommended during therapy. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment.

Precautions

Patients should maintain adequate hydration during therapy to prevent volume depletion. Regular monitoring of serum potassium, sodium, magnesium, and creatinine levels is essential. Use with caution in patients with history of gout, diabetes mellitus, or systemic lupus erythematosus. Hepatic function should be monitored periodically as hepatic encephalopathy has been reported in patients with severe liver disease. Patients should be advised about potential photosensitivity reactions and appropriate sun protection measures.

Contraindications

Lozol is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to indapamide, other sulfonamide-derived drugs, or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in patients with anuria, severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min), or severe hepatic impairment. The medication is contraindicated in patients with pre-existing significant hypokalemia or hyponatremia. Use during pregnancy is generally not recommended unless potential benefits outweigh risks.

Possible side effect

Common side effects (≥1%) include headache, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps or pain, and nausea. Less frequent adverse reactions may include orthostatic hypotension, palpitations, constipation, dry mouth, and rash. Electrolyte disturbances such as hypokalemia, hyponatremia, and hypochloremia may occur. Rare but serious side effects include pancreatitis, hepatic encephalopathy, blood dyscrasias, and severe cutaneous adverse reactions. Most side effects are dose-dependent and often diminish with continued therapy.

Drug interaction

Lozol may potentiate the effects of other antihypertensive medications. Concurrent use with lithium may increase lithium toxicity risk. NSAIDs may reduce the antihypertensive effect of indapamide. Corticosteroids and amphotericin B may increase the risk of hypokalemia. The medication may enhance the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents. Caution is advised when co-administering with digoxin due to increased risk of digitalis toxicity secondary to hypokalemia. ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers may increase the risk of renal impairment.

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, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed dose. Consistent daily administration is important for maintaining stable blood pressure control. Healthcare providers should educate patients about the importance of adherence to prescribed dosing regimens.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include electrolyte disturbances (particularly hypokalemia and hyponatremia), dehydration resulting from excessive diuresis, hypotension, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. In severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias or neurological symptoms may occur. Management involves gastric lavage if ingestion was recent, along with supportive measures including electrolyte replacement and volume resuscitation. There is no specific antidote for indapamide overdose. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed. Do not store in bathroom cabinets where humidity levels may fluctuate. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Proper disposal of unused medication should follow local regulations for pharmaceutical waste.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Lozol is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Patients should not initiate, discontinue, or change dosage without consulting their physician. Individual responses to medication may vary based on specific health conditions, concomitant medications, and other factors. Always follow the prescribing information provided with the medication and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated that Lozol provides effective blood pressure control in approximately 60-70% of patients with mild to moderate hypertension. Long-term trials show sustained efficacy over 12-24 months of treatment. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate high adherence rates due to the once-daily dosing regimen. Healthcare professionals appreciate its favorable metabolic profile and lower incidence of hypokalemia compared to traditional thiazide diuretics. The medication has maintained a strong safety record through decades of clinical use worldwide.