What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking amiloride and hydrochlorothiazide,

• Tell  your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amiloride, hydrochlorothiazide, sulfa drugs, or any other drugs.
• Tell  your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially captopril (Capoten); digoxin (Lanoxin); enalapril (Vasotec); indomethacin (Indocin); lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril); lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); medications for arthritis, diabetes, or high blood pressure; potassium supplements; and vitamins. Do not take this medicine if you are taking spironolactone or triamterene.
• Tell  your doctor if you have or have ever had diabetes, gout, or kidney or liver disease.
• Tell  your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking amiloride and hydrochlorothiazide, call your doctor immediately.
• If  you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking amiloride and hydrochlorothiazide.
• You  should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• Remember  that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Follow your doctor's directions for a low-salt or low-sodium diet and daily exercise program. Avoid potassium-containing salt substitutes. Limit your intake of potassium-rich foods (e.g., bananas, prunes, raisins, and orange juice). Ask your doctor for advice on how much of these foods you may have.