I am taking Maxide for High Blood Pressure and my pulse rate is 60 or below.

ssm,

Thanks for your question.  The textbook normal heart rate is 60 to 100 beats per minute.  A few beats above or below this is no cause for alarm. 

Maxide is a combination medication that contains two diuretics - hydrochlorthiazide and dyrenium.  They each do the same job, but the hydrochlorthiazide tends to cause the kidneys to lose potassium, while the dyrenium helps to retain potassium.  Theoretically, they both work together to maintain the level of potassium in the blood.  In reality, it's not unusual to see patients on maxide with low potassium levels and require supplementation. 

Maxide should have no effect on pulse rate.  If your pulse rate is less than sixty and you are having symptoms such as dizziness, especially on standing up from a sitting or lying position, you should see your doctor for his evaluation.  Your rate may be normal for you, and depends on your physical condition, or factors such as other medication.  If you have concerns, or your rate falls below 55, then I suggest you make an appointment with your doctor and get it checked out.

I hope this has been helpful. 

Martin Cane, M.D.