Key takeaways
Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) and digoxin (Lanoxin) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, also known as a water pill, that helps lower blood pressure and reduce swelling by making you urinate more. In contrast, digoxin is an antiarrhythmic medication used to treat heart failure and atrial fibrillation by helping your heart pump more effectively and controlling heart rate. Hydrochlorothiazide is typically taken once daily and is available as a lower-cost generic. Digoxin, also available as a generic, can be taken once or twice daily, with the dosage depending on factors like age and kidney health. While hydrochlorothiazide can cause side effects like dizziness and increased urination, digoxin has a risk of serious toxicity, which requires regular blood tests to monitor. Both medications interact with many other drugs, so it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking.
