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Chlortalidone

Chlortalidone, also known as chlorthalidone, is a thiazide-like medication that promotes the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys to treat and . It belongs to the class of sulfonamide-derived diuretics and was first approved by the FDA in 1960 for these indications. Chemically, it has the molecular formula C14H11ClN2O4S and is available in oral tablet form under brand names such as Hygroton, Thalitone, and HemiClor. Chlortalidone works by inhibiting the Na+/Cl- symporter in the of the , which increases urine production and reduces blood volume and pressure. Its include an within 2-3 hours, peak effects at 2-6 hours, and a prolonged duration of 48-72 hours due to a of 45-60 hours, making it more potent and longer-acting than hydrochlorothiazide. It is highly protein-bound (about 75%) and primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys. Clinically, chlortalidone is indicated as a first-line for in adults, where it lowers the risk of cardiovascular events like and , as demonstrated in trials such as ALLHAT. It is also used adjunctively for in conditions including , hepatic , renal dysfunction, and . Off-label applications include managing calcium nephrolithiasis, , and . Typical dosing for starts at 12.5-25 mg once daily, while for it ranges from 50-100 mg daily, with monitoring required for electrolyte imbalances like and . Contraindications include and to sulfonamides, and common adverse effects encompass , muscle cramps, and increased levels potentially leading to .

Medical uses

Hypertension and cardiovascular protection

Chlorthalidone serves as a first-line thiazide-like for the management of , often used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. Recommended doses typically range from 12.5 to 25 mg daily, which effectively lower by approximately 10 to 15 mmHg in clinical settings. This reduction is attributed in part to its diuretic mechanism, which promotes and decreases plasma volume, contributing to long-term hemodynamic improvements. Clinical trials have demonstrated chlorthalidone's superiority over hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) in control and cardiovascular risk reduction. In the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT, 2002), chlorthalidone (12.5–25 mg daily) reduced the incidence of by 19% compared to lisinopril and by 38% compared to amlodipine, while also lowering risk by 15% relative to lisinopril among high-risk hypertensive patients. Similarly, the in the Elderly Program (SHEP, 1991) showed that chlorthalidone-based therapy (starting at 12.5 mg daily) reduced total by 36%, ischemic stroke by 37%, and overall cardiovascular events by 32% in older adults with isolated . A 2019 meta-analysis further supports chlorthalidone's edge over HCTZ, reporting a greater systolic reduction of 3.26 mmHg (95% CI: -4.5 to -2 mmHg) and lower rates of cardiovascular events, positioning it as a preferred option for patients at elevated risk. More recent evidence from the (2022, with 2024 follow-up analysis) confirms cardiovascular benefits but shows no superiority over HCTZ in preventing progression, with a higher risk of associated with chlorthalidone. Regarding cardiovascular protection, chlorthalidone promotes regression of (LVH), a key target organ damage in . In the SHEP echocardiographic substudy, chlorthalidone led to a 13% decrease in left ventricular mass index over three years, contrasting with a 6% increase in the placebo group, primarily through sustained lowering. Long-term analyses from the Multiple Intervention indicate that chlorthalidone achieves greater LVH regression than HCTZ, with differences in electrocardiographic measures such as Sokolow-Lyon voltage (-93.9 μV vs. -54.9 μV over 48 months), potentially contributing to reduced mortality via enhanced myocardial effects beyond control alone.

Edema management

Chlorthalidone is indicated as adjunctive therapy for associated with congestive , hepatic , renal dysfunction (including ), and the administration of corticosteroids or estrogens. The typical initial dosage for edema management is 50–100 mg administered orally once daily, with potential titration up to a maximum of 200 mg daily based on clinical response; in some cases, 100 mg every other day may suffice for maintenance after initial decongestion. By inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the , chlorthalidone promotes and with a prolonged duration of action extending up to 72 hours after a single dose, which supports its efficacy in sustained fluid removal without frequent dosing. In responsive patients with , this leads to notable weight reduction, often in the range of 2–5 kg over the initial treatment period, reflecting effective mobilization of retained fluid. In cases of refractory , particularly in , chlorthalidone or other thiazide-like diuretics may be combined with to enhance through sequential blockade along the , more than doubling urinary sodium excretion and promoting further edema resolution. This approach is recommended in the 2022 AHA/ACC/HFSA Guideline for the Management of Heart Failure for patients with persistent congestion despite moderate- to high-dose therapy alone, though it should be initiated cautiously due to risks such as imbalances. Patients with and low require close monitoring for volume depletion during chlorthalidone therapy, including daily weight assessments, levels (e.g., sodium, ), renal function, and signs of hypoperfusion, to guide dose adjustments and prevent complications like or worsening renal impairment.

Nephrolithiasis prevention

Chlorthalidone plays a key role in preventing nephrolithiasis, particularly calcium-based stones, by modifying urinary chemistry to lower the risk of stone formation in susceptible individuals. Through its inhibitory effect on renal calcium reabsorption in the , it decreases urinary calcium excretion by 30–50%, which substantially reduces the supersaturation of with and , thereby limiting stone formation in patients with . Clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of chlorthalidone at doses of 25 mg daily for reducing stone recurrence in patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria. For instance, in studies summarized across treated and untreated cohorts, recurrence rates dropped from approximately 45% without treatment to 23% with thiazide-like diuretics such as chlorthalidone. Chlorthalidone is often preferred over hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) in guidelines and recent analyses for nephrolithiasis prevention due to its longer and more sustained reduction in urinary calcium excretion. This prolonged action provides better 24-hour control compared to shorter-acting thiazides like HCTZ. Appropriate patient selection is crucial, focusing on individuals with a history of recurrent calcium stones and preserved renal function (e.g., estimated >30 mL/min/1.73 m²), where the benefits in mineral balance outweigh potential risks.

Other indications

Chlorthalidone has been investigated for its role in preventing fractures in postmenopausal women with , primarily through its effects on calcium . By inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the , it reduces urinary calcium , leading to mild hypercalcemia that stimulates bone formation and decreases resorption. A large randomized in older adults, including many postmenopausal participants, found that chlorthalidone at doses of 12.5 to 25 mg daily was associated with a 21% reduction in the risk of and pelvic fractures compared to other antihypertensives. Another placebo-controlled in postmenopausal women demonstrated significant reductions in annual density loss at the and with similar low doses over 2.6 years on average. In the treatment of , chlorthalidone is used off-label to manage vertigo by reducing endolymphatic hydrops through its action on in the . Clinical observations indicate that periodic or long-term provides symptomatic relief in many patients during active disease phases, with doses typically ranging from 25 to 50 mg daily. A supports its inclusion as a first-line option alongside hydrochlorothiazide and for decreasing vertigo attack frequency, though evidence quality remains moderate due to limited randomized trials. Chlorthalidone serves as an adjunct in managing in infantile cases, particularly when used with to enhance and reduce . By inducing mild volume depletion, it paradoxically increases proximal tubule reabsorption of sodium and water, complementing desmopressin's vasopressin-like effects on the collecting ducts. Guidelines for infantile cases recommend combining thiazide-like diuretics such as chlorthalidone with and low-solute diets to optimize urine output control. Chlorthalidone is used off-label in to counteract renal resistance to by mechanisms of volume depletion and enhanced solute reabsorption, often in combination with other agents like amiloride. Although effective in reducing urine volume by up to 50% in some cases, it lacks FDA approval for this indication and is reserved for refractory scenarios.

Adverse effects

Electrolyte and metabolic disturbances

Chlorthalidone, a thiazide-like , commonly induces due to increased renal excretion, with an incidence of approximately 12.9% in the first year of treatment among high-risk hypertensive patients. Recent analyses (as of 2024) indicate chlorthalidone is associated with a higher incidence of compared to hydrochlorothiazide. This elevates the risk of cardiac arrhythmias, particularly in patients with preexisting heart conditions, as low levels can prolong the and predispose to ventricular ectopy. To mitigate this risk, clinical guidelines recommend routine monitoring of and co-administration of potassium-sparing diuretics such as amiloride or , or potassium supplementation, especially at doses exceeding 12.5 mg daily. Hyponatremia occurs in about 4.1% of patients treated with chlorthalidone, compared to 1.3% with , primarily through impaired free water in the distal tubule. Hypercalcemia is another potential disturbance, resulting from reduced urinary calcium , though its incidence is low (less than 1% in large trials) and typically asymptomatic unless underlying is present. These changes in renal handling of electrolytes necessitate periodic laboratory assessments to prevent symptomatic complications like or muscle cramps. Chlorthalidone elevates serum levels by decreasing urate clearance, increasing the of flares, with an incidence of new-onset around 2-4% over several years. and impaired glucose tolerance are also observed, with long-term use associated with a 20-30% increased of new-onset diabetes mellitus, particularly in patients with or , due to hypokalemia-mediated and direct pancreatic effects. glucose monitoring and interventions are advised to manage this metabolic shift.

Dermatological and hypersensitivity reactions

Chlorthalidone, a sulfonamide-derived -like , is associated with dermatological adverse effects primarily manifesting as and various reactions. occurs rarely, with an estimated incidence of 1 to 100 cases per 100,000 patients treated with , including chlorthalidone, and may lead to exaggerated sunburn-like reactions upon exposure to A () . Patients experiencing this should be advised to use sun-protective measures, such as broad-spectrum , protective clothing, and avoidance of direct , to mitigate risks. Hypersensitivity reactions to chlorthalidone are uncommon but can include cutaneous manifestations such as and urticaria, reported in 1% to 10% of users. More severe reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and , are rare, occurring in less than 0.1% of cases, and typically present with blistering, peeling skin, and involvement. These reactions are linked to the drug's moiety, which can trigger in susceptible individuals. Cross-reactivity with other sulfonamide-containing drugs is a theoretical concern due to structural similarities, but clinical evidence indicates a low actual risk, with only isolated case reports documenting reactions such as or fixed drug eruptions in patients with prior antibiotic allergies. For instance, among patients with documented sulfonamide allergies, subsequent exposure to diuretics like chlorthalidone rarely provokes cross-reactions, estimated at less than 1% based on limited literature. Rare case reports have described lichenoid eruptions and alopecia associated with chlorthalidone use. One documented instance involved Graham-Little-Piccardi-Lassueur syndrome, characterized by cicatricial scalp alopecia and lichenoid follicular eruptions, which resolved upon drug discontinuation. These reactions highlight the potential for idiosyncratic dermatological responses, necessitating prompt evaluation and withdrawal of the medication if suspected.

Other adverse effects

Chlorthalidone can cause various gastrointestinal adverse effects, including , , and , which occur in approximately 1% to 10% of patients as general gastrointestinal discomfort, with specific symptoms like nausea and vomiting being less common at rates below 0.1%. These effects are typically mild and may resolve with continued use or dose adjustment. Orthostatic hypotension and associated are notable adverse effects of chlorthalidone, particularly during treatment initiation or with higher doses, due to its blood pressure-lowering action and prolonged duration of effect. These symptoms arise from volume reduction and can increase fall risk, especially in older adults. Fatigue and muscle cramps are also reported with chlorthalidone use, often attributable to volume depletion from its properties rather than direct shifts. These complaints contribute to overall discomfort and may necessitate monitoring of hydration status. Rarely, chlorthalidone has been associated with , including impotence in men, with studies indicating a higher incidence compared to or other antihypertensives, potentially emerging early in treatment. This effect is uncommon but can impact , warranting discussion with healthcare providers.

Contraindications and precautions

Contraindications may vary by country; the following are based primarily on FDA guidance, with additional precautions from international sources.

Contraindications

Chlorthalidone is absolutely contraindicated in patients with , as the drug relies on renal and production for its elimination, leading to potential accumulation and in the absence of renal function. It is also contraindicated in individuals with to chlorthalidone or other sulfonamide-derived drugs, given the potential for severe allergic reactions including .

Drug interactions

Chlorthalidone, a thiazide-like , can interact with various medications, potentially altering its efficacy or increasing the risk of adverse effects, necessitating careful monitoring and dose adjustments. When combined with (ACE) inhibitors, blockers (ARBs), or other antihypertensive agents, chlorthalidone may produce additive hypotensive effects, leading to excessive reduction. Close monitoring of is recommended to avoid symptomatic . Concomitant use of chlorthalidone with is generally contraindicated due to decreased renal clearance of lithium, which can result in elevated lithium levels and serious , including neurological symptoms such as , , and seizures. If is unavoidable, frequent of lithium concentrations and signs of is essential, with dose adjustments as needed. Chlorthalidone may impair glucose tolerance and elevate blood glucose levels, potentially reducing the efficacy of antidiabetic agents such as insulin or oral hypoglycemics, which could lead to in diabetic patients. Monitoring of serum glucose levels is advised, and doses of antidiabetic medications may need to be increased to maintain glycemic control. The hypokalemic effect of chlorthalidone increases the risk of when used concurrently, as low levels can enhance digoxin's cardiotoxic potential, potentially causing arrhythmias. Regular monitoring of serum and electrocardiographic evaluation are recommended to prevent complications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can diminish the natriuretic and antihypertensive effects of chlorthalidone by inhibiting renal synthesis, which may counteract the diuretic's action. and renal function should be monitored closely during co-administration, with consideration of alternative analgesics if efficacy is compromised.

Use in special populations

Precautions in specific conditions

Use chlorthalidone with caution in patients with severe renal impairment (e.g., clearance below 30 mL/min), due to heightened risk of and cumulative effects; monitor renal function closely and consider discontinuation if deterioration occurs. In patients with existing , , or other electrolyte imbalances, the drug may worsen these conditions; monitor and correct electrolytes prior to and during therapy. Similarly, caution is advised in individuals with symptomatic or a history of , as chlorthalidone can elevate serum levels and precipitate gouty attacks; monitor levels in susceptible patients. Regarding pregnancy, chlorthalidone may cause fetal harm, including , , , and disturbances due to transplacental passage; it is not recommended, particularly in the first trimester, and should be avoided unless benefits clearly outweigh potential risks. Alternative antihypertensives are preferred for . In elderly patients, chlorthalidone dosing should begin at the lower end of the range, typically 12.5 mg daily, due to age-related declines in renal function and increased susceptibility to adverse effects such as and imbalances. Clinical studies in older adults have demonstrated a higher incidence of eGFR decline and cardiovascular events with chlorthalidone compared to alternatives like hydrochlorothiazide, emphasizing the need for close monitoring of serum electrolytes and renal function during initiation and titration. During pregnancy, chlorthalidone is generally avoided unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks, as it crosses the and is associated with fetal or neonatal complications including , , , and disturbances. Observational data indicate no substantial increase in major congenital malformations or risk, but authorities recommend alternative antihypertensives for . In lactation, chlorthalidone is excreted into , potentially causing or issues in the , so its use is discouraged; for infant effects is essential if administration is unavoidable. For patients with renal impairment, chlorthalidone requires caution, particularly when clearance is below 30 mL/min, where it may precipitate ; dose reductions to 12.5–25 mg daily are advised for CrCl 30–50 mL/min, with regular assessment of renal function to guide adjustments. In hepatic impairment, no specific dosage modifications are outlined, but caution is warranted due to potential exacerbation of from fluid and shifts; it should be avoided in decompensated . Studies confirm efficacy at standard low doses (e.g., 25 mg) even in moderate renal dysfunction, but cumulative effects necessitate individualized monitoring. Pediatric use of chlorthalidone is limited by insufficient and data, and it is not routinely recommended except in select cases of associated with or unresponsive to other therapies. Dosing, when considered, starts at 0.3 mg/kg/day (up to 2 mg/kg/day, not exceeding 50 mg), administered with to enhance absorption, but long-term outcomes remain understudied, requiring specialist oversight.

Pharmacology

Mechanism of action

Chlorthalidone primarily acts as a by inhibiting the sodium-chloride (NCC), also known as the Na⁺/Cl⁻ , located on the apical of epithelial cells in the (DCT) of the . This inhibition prevents the reabsorption of sodium and chloride ions from the tubular lumen, leading to their increased urinary excretion along with osmotically obligated water; this process accounts for approximately 5% of the filtered sodium load under normal conditions. In addition to its effects on the NCC, chlorthalidone weakly inhibits isozymes, particularly CA II, due to its group. This inhibition impairs the enzyme's role in facilitating reabsorption in the and DCT, resulting in mild and a subtle that enhances the drug's natriuretic potency. Chlorthalidone's antihypertensive effects extend beyond through direct vasodilatory actions on vascular cells, which occur independently of volume depletion and contribute to reduced peripheral . These effects may involve calcium desensitization in , attenuating agonist-induced via Rho pathways, as well as decreased and promotion of . Over the long term, chlorthalidone sustains reduction partly through modulation of renal , including inhibition of PGE₂-9-ketoreductase, which alters and enhances while decreasing .

Pharmacokinetics

Chlorthalidone is administered orally and exhibits an absolute of approximately 64% following a 50 mg dose. Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 2 to 6 hours after , with the onset of effects occurring around 2 to 3 hours post-dose. The duration of action is prolonged, lasting 24 to 72 hours, which supports once-daily dosing. The drug is approximately 75% bound to proteins, primarily , with additional high affinity for erythrocyte , contributing to its extended of 40 to 60 hours. This protein binding and tissue distribution result in a volume of distribution of about 2.4 L/kg, allowing for accumulation in erythrocytes and slow release back into . Steady-state levels are generally achieved after 2 to 3 weeks of continuous dosing due to the long elimination . Metabolism of chlorthalidone is minimal and occurs partially in the liver, with no major active metabolites identified. Elimination is primarily renal, with the major portion of the dose excreted unchanged in the urine via glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion; the remainder is eliminated through non-renal routes. In patients with renal impairment, the drug accumulates due to reduced clearance, necessitating dose adjustments.

Chemistry

Structure and physical properties

Chlorthalidone possesses the molecular formula C14H11ClN2O4S and a molecular weight of 338.78 g/mol. It is a monosulfamoylbenzamide characterized by a benzene-fused phthalimidine ring system. Although classified as a -like diuretic, chlorthalidone is structurally distinct from diuretics, lacking the benzothiadiazine ring, with its pharmacological activity largely stemming from the moiety. The compound manifests as a white to yellowish-white, odorless or nearly odorless crystalline powder. It exhibits a of 215–220 °C (with ). Chlorthalidone is sparingly soluble in water (about 120 mg/L at 25 °C), practically insoluble in and , slightly soluble in , and freely soluble in and dilute alkaline solutions; its pKa of 9.4 reflects weak acidic behavior, remaining largely unionized under physiological conditions. Chlorthalidone demonstrates sensitivity to light and is stable when stored in airtight containers at room temperature (below 40 °C), with a typical shelf life of 5 years under these conditions.

Synthesis

Chlorthalidone was first synthesized through a patented process in 1957, which begins with the condensation of 3-nitro-4-chlorobenzoic acid and phthalide to form the key intermediate 2-(3-nitro-4-chlorobenzoyl)benzoic acid. This intermediate undergoes selective reduction using cuprous chloride and potassium iodide to yield 2-(3-amino-4-chlorobenzoyl)benzoic acid. Subsequent steps include diazotization of the amino group, followed by sulfonation to introduce the sulfonyl chloride functionality, chlorination to form the phthalide derivative, and finally ammonolysis to produce chlorthalidone. The industrial production of chlorthalidone follows a multi-step process with overall yields typically around 70%, emphasizing high-purity intermediates to minimize impurities. Key manufacturing considerations include the use of reversed-phase (RP-HPLC) for validation and control of process-related impurities in the (API), ensuring compliance with pharmaceutical standards such as those outlined in the . The process avoids hazardous diazotization in some optimized variants by starting from 2-(4-chlorobenzoyl), followed by reduction, sulfonation with chlorosulfonic acid, and using under basic conditions. Research has explored variants such as derivatives of chlorthalidone, formed by condensation of the group with aldehydes, to potentially enhance biological activity, including as inhibitors of ; however, these modifications do not alter the standard structure used in clinical formulations.

Society and culture

History

Chlorthalidone was discovered by researchers at Geigy, a pharmaceutical company now part of , and was first described in a 1959 publication in Helvetica Chimica Acta. The compound was patented by Geigy Chemical Corporation with a priority filing date of November 4, 1957, under US Patent 3,055,904, which covered new isoindoline derivatives including chlorthalidone for its properties. It was initially developed as part of efforts to create long-acting -based diuretics following the success of earlier thiazides like chlorothiazide. Chlorthalidone was first marketed under the brand name Hygroton in 1960, initially approved in for the treatment of and . In the United States, the approved chlorthalidone for similar indications in 1960, marking its entry into clinical practice as a thiazide-like with prolonged action compared to shorter-acting alternatives. Early adoption focused on its efficacy in managing fluid retention and , with Hygroton becoming a standard option in antihypertensive regimens during the 1960s. The cardiovascular benefits of chlorthalidone were solidified through major clinical trials in the late . The in the Elderly (SHEP), published in 1991, demonstrated that low-dose chlorthalidone-based stepped-care therapy reduced the risk of by 36% and overall cardiovascular events by 32% in older adults with isolated , establishing its role in preventing fatal and nonfatal outcomes. Similarly, the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT), reported in 2002, confirmed chlorthalidone's superiority over other agents like lisinopril in reducing , , and combined cardiovascular events, while highlighting its effectiveness as a first-line in diverse high-risk populations. In the 1970s, dose-response studies shifted clinical practice toward lower doses of chlorthalidone to optimize efficacy while minimizing side effects such as . Research, including a , showed that 25 mg daily provided reduction comparable to higher doses (50-75 mg) but with significantly less disturbance, leading to recommendations for 12.5-25 mg regimens that reduced adverse events without compromising antihypertensive benefits. This evolution emphasized chlorthalidone's favorable and contributed to its enduring position in guidelines.

Availability and brand names

Chlorthalidone is widely available as a generic in oral tablet formulations, commonly in strengths of 12.5 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg, with some brands offering 15 mg options. It is included on the World Health Organization's Model List of , having been first added in 2021 for the treatment of and . Common brand names for chlorthalidone include Hygroton (manufactured by ), Thalitone, and the low-dose HemiClor (12.5 mg tablets, approved by the FDA on March 17, 2025, for treatment in adults). These formulations are accessible globally through prescription, with generic versions promoting affordability in various healthcare systems. In the United States, chlorthalidone was the 124th most commonly prescribed medication in 2023, accounting for over 5 million prescriptions, reflecting its established role in hypertension management. Prescription trends for hydrochlorothiazide have declined following 2019 FDA warnings about potential carcinogenic impurities, contributing to greater adoption of chlorthalidone as a preferred thiazide-like diuretic. Chlorthalidone is frequently combined with other agents to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects, such as in fixed-dose products with the beta-blocker atenolol (e.g., Tenoretic) or potassium-sparing diuretics like triamterene or spironolactone to counteract hypokalemia. These combination formulations are available in multiple countries and are recommended in guidelines for patients requiring multifaceted antihypertensive therapy.

Regulations and recent developments

Chlorthalidone is classified as a prohibited substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) under the category of diuretics and masking agents, banned at all times in competitive sports due to its potential for aiding weight loss, masking the use of other performance-enhancing drugs, or diluting urine samples. This prohibition has led to sanctions in various sports, including instances of positive tests in weightlifting and cycling. In India, chlorthalidone is regulated as a Schedule H drug, requiring a prescription from a registered medical practitioner for sale and dispensing. Recent research from 2024 and 2025 has further clarified chlorthalidone's comparative efficacy and safety profile relative to hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). The , a secondary published in 2024, evaluated kidney outcomes in patients with and found that chlorthalidone was not superior to HCTZ in preventing progression, end-stage kidney disease, or a ≥30% decline in estimated ; however, it was associated with a higher incidence of . Supporting meta-analyses from this period, including a 2024 review, indicate that chlorthalidone provides superior 24-hour control, reducing systolic by approximately 3–5 mmHg more than equivalent doses of HCTZ, attributed to its longer duration of action and higher potency. A 2025 randomized (OPTION TREAT) published in JACC: Advances evaluated a triple-combination single-pill formulation containing candesartan cilexetil 16 mg, amlodipine 5 mg, and chlorthalidone 12.5 mg in adults with uncontrolled despite dual therapy. At 12 weeks, it reduced systolic by 22.6 mm Hg (to 128.6 mm Hg) compared to 18.2 mm Hg (to 133.5 mm Hg) with the control combination (valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide/amlodipine), with 69.3% achieving BP <140/90 mm Hg versus 59.8% (P < .001). The trial was conducted in and suggests potential for improved control. Prescriptions for diuretics have declined following 2024 reports and studies highlighting risks primarily associated with HCTZ, such as , prompting a shift toward chlorthalidone, which shows no comparable increased risk in recent analyses, reinforced by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifying hydrochlorothiazide as carcinogenic to humans in November 2024 for causing of the skin.

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