Medicines

Indapamide

Indapamide is a water tablet used to lower blood pressure. It is often used as a first or second choice treatment.

Type of medicine
Thiazide-like diuretic (water tablet)
Also known as
Natrilix, Tensaid
Comes as
tablets, modified-release tablets
How you get it
Prescription only

What it is used for

  • High blood pressure

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Indapamide is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Indapamide helps the kidneys remove salt and water and relaxes blood vessels. Together, these lower blood pressure.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Indapamide can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

  • low potassium
  • needing to pee more
  • headache
  • feeling dizzy
  • skin rash

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

  • muscle cramps, weakness, confusion or an irregular heartbeat, which can be signs of low potassium or sodium
  • fainting
  • a severe skin rash

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

  • You need regular blood tests to check potassium and sodium levels.
  • It can make gout worse.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.

Official information

Last checked 5 October 2026. Tell us if something looks wrong.

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