Key takeaways
Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) and spironolactone (Aldactone) are both diuretics, but they work differently and have different uses. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that helps you get rid of extra fluid by making you urinate more, which lowers blood pressure and reduces swelling. Spironolactone, on the other hand, is a potassium-sparing diuretic that also blocks aldosterone, a hormone that affects sodium and potassium levels. This means spironolactone helps you lose extra fluid without lowering your potassium levels. Hydrochlorothiazide is typically used for high blood pressure and swelling, while spironolactone is used for heart failure, high blood pressure, and swelling due to liver or kidney problems. Spironolactone can also treat conditions with too much aldosterone. Both medications can cause you to urinate more often, but spironolactone has additional side effects like breast tenderness and lower sex drive in males. Hydrochlorothiazide can cause dizziness and make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable.
