Any of a group of compounds, many of which are widely used diuretics.
Thiazides are a group of moderately potent diuretics which are effective when taken by mouth. They act by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the renal tubules. They also have a blood-pressure-lowering effect. Chlorothiazide was the first member of this group to be introduced. Their main use is to relieve oedema in heart failure.