Pharmacology Of Chlorthalidone

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.
Pharmacodynamics	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.
Mechanism of action	Chlorthalidone inhibits sodium ion transport across the renal tubular epithelium in the cortical diluting segment of the ascending limb of the loop of Henle. By increasing the delivery of sodium to the distal renal tubule, Chlorthalidone indirectly increases potassium excretion via the sodium-potassium exchange mechanism.
Absorption	Absorbed relatively rapidly after oral administration.
Volume of distribution	Not Available
Protein binding	High (75% [58% to albumin])
Metabolism	Liver
Route of elimination	The major portion of the drug is excreted unchanged by the kidneys.
Half life	40 hours
Clearance	Not Available
Toxicity	Symptoms of overdose include nausea, weakness, dizziness and disturbances of electrolyte balance.