Chlorothiazide and Minivelle

• Generic Name: chlorothiazide
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Diuril, Diuril Sodium

Chlorothiazide is used to treat fluid retention (edema) that is caused by congestive heart failure, severe liver disease (cirrhosis), kidney disease, or from treatment with a steroid or hormone medicine.

Chlorothiazide is also used alone or together with other medicines to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if the blood pressure is controlled.

Chlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill). It reduces the amount of water in the body by increasing the flow of urine, which helps to lower blood pressure and remove excess fluid (edema).

Chlorothiazide is available only with your doctor's prescription.

• Generic Name: estradiol
• Dosage Forms: transdermal film, extended release
• Other Brand Names: Alora, Climara, Estradiol Patch, Menostar, Minivelle, Vivelle-Dot, Estraderm, Vivelle, Delestrogen, Depo-Estradiol, Divigel, Elestrin Pump, Estrasorb, EstroGel Pump, Evamist, Estrace, DepoEstradiol, Elestrin, Estradot, Estrogel, Femtrace, Femring, Gynodiol

Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone produced by the ovaries. Estrogen is necessary for many processes in the body.

Minivelle skin patches are used to treat certain symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, and vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation. Minivelle is also used to prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis, or to treat ovarian disorders.

Minivelle may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.