Zaroxolyn (Metolazone)

Indications

Zaroxolyn is an oral medication used to treat high blood pressure and to remove excessive fluid caused by conditions such as congestive heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease. It is a brand name for the drug metolazone, which belongs to the class of medications called diuretics or "water pills". By increasing the amount of urine that is produced, Zaroxolyn helps to remove excess salt and water from the body.

Uses and Dosage

Metolazone comes in tablet form and should be taken orally, usually once per day at approximately the same time each day. Take metolazone exactly as directed by your doctor and do not take more or less of it or take it more frequently than prescribed.

The recommended dosage of Metolazone depends on the condition being treated. However, the usual initial dosage for adults for hypertension is typically 2.5 to 5 milligrams (mg) once a day, which may be increased to 20 mg once daily as needed. For edema, the initial dosage is typically 2.5 to 10 mg once a day, which may be gradually increased to 20 mg as needed. Your doctor may adjust the dosage as needed based on your response to the medication. The maximum recommended daily dose of Metolazone for hypertension is 5 mg and for edema is 20 mg.

Your doctor will likely start you on a low dose of metolazone and adjust the dose gradually based on your response to the medication. Continue taking metolazone even if you feel well, as it helps control high blood pressure but does not cure it. Do not stop taking metolazone without consulting with your doctor first.

Side effect

Common Side Effects of Zaroxolyn (Metolazone):

• Constipation
• Depressed mood
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle or joint pain
• Nausea
• Numbness or tingly feeling
• Spinning sensation
• Stomach pain
• Tiredness

Serious Side Effects of Zaroxolyn (Metolazone):

• Burning in your eyes and
• Chest pain
• Clay-colored stools
• Confusion
• Constipation
• Dark urine
• Difficulty breathing
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Easy bruising
• Feeling unsteady
• Fever
• Fluttering in your chest
• Headache
• Hives
• Increased thirst or urination
• Irregular heartbeats
• Itching
• Lack of energy
• Leg cramps
• Lightheadedness
• Limp feeling
• Little or no urination
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of coordination
• Muscle pain
• Muscle weakness
• Nausea
• Numbness
• Pounding heartbeats
• Restlessness
• Severe weakness
• Skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling
• Slurred speech
• Sore throat
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Tingling
• Tiredness
• Unusual bleeding
• Upper stomach pain
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Form and Strength

Zaroxolyn (Metolazone) is available in the following forms and strength:

Zaroxolyn: Tablet 

• 2.5 mg

Metolazone: Tablet

• 5 mg

Caution

• Do not take Zaroxolyn if you are allergic to metolazone or any of the ingredients in the medication.
• Metolazone may interact with several other drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), lithium, and digoxin.
• People with certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, diabetes, and gout, may need to be monitored more closely while taking Zaroxolyn.
• Zaroxolyn may raise blood sugar levels and therefore should be used with caution in people with diabetes.
• Metolazone may cause electrolyte imbalances, such as low levels of potassium in the blood, which can lead to symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat.
• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, you should talk to your doctor before taking Zaroxolyn.
• Zaroxolyn may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when getting up from a sitting or lying position. To avoid falling, get up slowly from a seated or lying position.
• Metolazone may cause sensitivity to sunlight, so you may need to avoid sun exposure or wear protective clothing when going outside.
• Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Zaroxolyn and may require a lower dose.
• If you have a history of metabolic alkalosis, a condition in which the pH of your blood becomes too high, you should use Zaroxolyn with caution.
• Zaroxolyn may increase the risk of developing lupus-like syndrome, a condition that causes joint pain, muscle stiffness, and fatigue.
• If you experience symptoms like muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, or increased heartbeat while taking Zaroxolyn, you should consult your doctor immediately, as these may be signs of a serious electrolyte imbalance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What type of diuretic is Zaroxolyn?

Zaroxolyn is a quinazoline diuretic, with properties generally similar to the thiazide diuretics.

How long does it take for Zaroxolyn to work?

It usually takes 3 to 4 days for metolazone to start reducing edema, and 3 to 6 weeks to start reducing blood pressure.

How many times a day can you take metolazone?

It is usually taken once a day. Take metolazone at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take metolazone exactly as directed.

Is metolazone used for weight loss?

No, metolazone is not approved as a weight loss medication. It helps people who hold extra fluid in their body due to kidney or heart problems. Metolazone can remove extra fluid to help relieve shortness of breath and to lower blood pressure.

Resources

• https://www.drugs.com/mtm/zaroxolyn.html
• https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/zaroxolyn
• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/017386s043lbl.pdf
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-8434/zaroxolyn-oral/details
• https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/metolazone
• https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682345.html
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/metolazone-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20071743?p=1