A benzenesulfonamide-phthalimidine that tautomerizes to a benzophenones form. It is considered a thiazide-like diuretic. [PubChem]
Indication
For management of hypertension either as the sole therapeutic agent or to enhance the effect of other antihypertensive drugs in the more severe forms of hypertension.
Pharmacology
Chlorthalidone, a monosulfonamyl diuretic, differs form other thiazide diuretics in that a double ring system is incorporated into its structure. Chlorthalidone is used alone or with atenolol in the management of hypertension and edema.
Toxicity
Symptoms of overdose include nausea, weakness, dizziness and disturbances of electrolyte balance.
Affected Organisms
Humans and other mammals
Biotransformation
Liver
Absorption
Absorbed relatively rapidly after oral administration.
Half Life
40 hours
Protein Binding
High (75% [58% to albumin])
Elimination
The major portion of the drug is excreted unchanged by the kidneys.
