Amilozid-Teva

Quick links to important sections

Amilozid-Teva

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Amilozid-Teva

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredients Amiloride and Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)
Form Oral Tablet
Pharmacological Class Antihypertensive Agent, Diuretic (Potassium-Sparing + Thiazide)
General Purpose Lowering high blood pressure and reducing fluid retention
Origin Synthetic Compound

What Type of Medicine is Amilozid-Teva?

Amilozid-Teva is a prescription synthetic pharmaceutical preparation that is classified as a fixed-dose combination product, delivered in a single oral tablet. This medication is broadly categorized as an antihypertensive agent and a diuretic, intended to manage fluid balance and blood pressure. The product falls under the combined pharmacological class of Potassium-Sparing Diuretics with Thiazides, a designation that is essential for confirming its role in controlling vascular pressure and fluid volume.


What is Amilozid-Teva Made Of?

The medicine is composed of two primary active ingredients: Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), which functions as a standard thiazide diuretic, and Amiloride, a potassium-sparing diuretic. HCTZ is primarily responsible for the rapid promotion of fluid clearance, facilitating diuresis (increased urine flow) and natriuresis (excretion of sodium). The inclusion of Amiloride is a differentiating factor, as it acts to prevent the typical, undesirable loss of potassium that often accompanies HCTZ monotherapy. Combining the two substances is an established strategy for optimizing diuresis while mitigating the risk of hypokalemia, or low potassium.


What is the General Purpose of Amilozid-Teva?

The overarching purpose of Amilozid-Teva is to assist in the control of high blood pressure (hypertension) and to help the body manage chronic edema (fluid retention). The dual physiological action ensures the medicine successfully reduces the total volume of fluid in the circulatory system, which directly reduces pressure on the walls of blood vessels. By selectively protecting vital electrolyte homeostasis, the drug provides a balanced and robust foundation for the long-term management of fluid accumulation and peripheral vascular resistance.

What side effects are possible with Amilozid-Teva?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Amilozid-Teva (Amiloride and Hydrochlorothiazide) is primarily characterized by the documented effects on electrolyte and metabolic balance. All adverse reactions and safety statements are based strictly on government regulatory labeling.

Key Adverse Reaction Categories

Category Documented Examples
Metabolic/Electrolyte Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium), hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hyperglycemia, hyperuricemia (gout).
Common Systemic Headache, weakness, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, and rash.
Cardiovascular Orthostatic hypotension (dizziness upon standing) and tachycardia.

Frequency Classification: Reactions such as headache, weakness, and dizziness are typically classified as common (incidence > 1%) in regulatory documents, while others, including gout and symptomatic hyponatremia, are noted at a lower incidence (le 1%).


Serious Adverse Reactions and Restrictions

Official labeling documents specific, clinically significant safety concerns:

  • Hyperkalemia: A potentially fatal event, requiring immediate and frequent monitoring of serum potassium levels, particularly in patients with renal impairment or diabetes mellitus.
  • Ocular Events: The Hydrochlorothiazide component carries a documented risk for Acute Myopia and Secondary Angle-Closure Glaucoma, which can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated. These events often occur within the initial weeks of therapy.
  • Non-melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC): An increased risk of Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is associated with the cumulative dose of Hydrochlorothiazide over time.

Population-Specific Constraints: The medication is contraindicated in patients with anuria (absence of urination) and severe renal insufficiency. Safety has not been established for pediatric use, and routine use is contraindicated during pregnancy or lactation.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Official regulatory labeling defines the overdose of Amilozid-Teva by the risk of Severe Electrolyte Imbalance and Volume Depletion. Manifestations often relate to excessive fluid loss, including Hypotension (low blood pressure), Tachycardia or Bradycardia, and neurological effects such as Drowsiness and Confusion.

Severe Outcomes and Emergency Action

Overdose presents a critical risk of Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), primarily due to the Amiloride component. Uncorrected Hyperkalemia is documented as potentially fatal and is associated with serious ECG abnormalities and the possibility of progressing to Shock. The drug must be discontinued immediately upon the development of Hyperkalemia.

When to Seek Help

Regulatory documents provide explicit guidance on when to seek urgent medical attention. Immediate emergency help must be obtained if the person has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened. Management is symptomatic and supportive, and specific interventions are required for severe potassium elevation (e.g., intravenous insulin/glucose). Continuous ECG monitoring and frequent monitoring of serum electrolytes are mandatory to manage the critical risks. No specific antidote is known; treatment focuses entirely on correcting the documented physiological imbalances.

Therapeutic Uses of Amilozid-Teva

What Amilozid-Teva Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Amilozid-Teva is generally used in specific clinical contexts to help manage cardiovascular and fluid balance issues. Its primary therapeutic role is applied in addressing high blood pressure and fluid retention. The medication supports patients by providing symptomatic relief in areas where systemic imbalance and heightened physiological activity interfere with daily functioning.


Management of Fluid Retention and Swelling

This domain covers situations involving symptoms related to systemic imbalance, such as excess fluid accumulation or edema. The medication is applied in addressing systemic imbalance, which helps ease the overall symptom burden of swelling and supports patients during episodes of heightened discomfort. This is commonly used across conditions presenting with episodic or fluctuating manifestations.

“The medication may assist with maintaining functional stability when symptoms lead to temporary functional strain.”

Quick Fact: Relevant for managing symptoms related to physical discomfort


Supportive Treatment for High Blood Pressure

This block addresses the context of hypertension, a condition marked by increased physiological stress. Amilozid-Teva is commonly used as adjunctive therapy when short-term symptomatic assistance is needed to assist with maintaining functional stability related to blood pressure. This supportive approach supports patients in coping more steadily with the difficult episodes associated with high blood pressure, helping to maintain a sense of cardiovascular stability.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview on Amiloride and Hydrochlorothiazide

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Profile: Who Can and Cannot Use Amilozid-Teva?

The use of Amilozid-Teva (Amiloride/Hydrochlorothiazide) is strictly defined by regulatory documents, primarily restricting the medicine to adult patients without specific contraindicating conditions.

Populations Contraindicated (Must NOT Use) Special Populations/Conditions
Hyperkalemia (serum potassium > 5.5 mEq/L) Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness have not been established for children and adolescents (<18 years of age).
Severe Renal Impairment (Anuria, Acute/Chronic Renal Insufficiency, Diabetic Nephropathy) Pregnancy/Lactation: Not recommended during breastfeeding as Hydrochlorothiazide passes into breast milk. Use during pregnancy is generally not advised.
Hypersensitivity to any component or sulfonamide-derived drugs Renal Impairment: Contraindicated in severe disease. Patients with lesser impairment or Diabetes Mellitus require careful, frequent, and continuing monitoring of serum electrolytes and renal function.
Concurrent use of Potassium-Sparing Agents (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene) or Potassium Supplements Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution, as fluid shifts may precipitate hepatic coma.

These official eligibility constraints are designed to prevent the rapid and potentially fatal development of hyperkalemia, which is a specific risk accentuated in the presence of kidney dysfunction or concurrent use of other potassium-retaining substances, as noted in authoritative labeling.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Officially documented interaction patterns for Amilozid-Teva (Amiloride/Hydrochlorothiazide) are primarily defined by two major risks: hyperkalemia and additive effects on blood pressure. Co-administration is contraindicated with other potassium-sparing diuretics, specifically Spironolactone and Triamterene. This prohibition extends to all forms of potassium supplementation, including potassium-containing salt substitutes and a potassium-rich diet, due to the established risk of severely elevated serum potassium levels.

Several medicinal product categories are documented to increase this risk of hyperkalemia. These include Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (ACEi), Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists (ARBs), and immunosuppressants such as Cyclosporine and Tacrolimus. Additionally, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (NSAIDs) may reduce the drug's intended antihypertensive effect while also increasing the risk of hyperkalemia. The risk of hyperkalemia is officially accentuated in populations with impaired renal function and in patients with Diabetes Mellitus.

Pharmacokinetic interactions are documented concerning drug clearance. Diuretic components officially reduce the renal clearance of Lithium, significantly raising the risk of Lithium toxicity. The absorption of Hydrochlorothiazide is impaired by co-administration with Cholestyramine and Colestipol resins, which reduces systemic exposure. Pharmacodynamic effects include the potentiation of orthostatic hypotension when combined with Alcohol, Barbiturates, or Narcotics. The tablets are subject to a formal administration requirement that they should be administered with food.

Mechanism of Action

Amilozid-Teva is a combination product whose pharmacodynamics are governed by two distinct agents, hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride.

Hydrochlorothiazide acts as a non-competitive inhibitor of the sodium-chloride cotransporter (NCC) protein on the apical membrane of epithelial cells in the renal distal convoluted tubule. This interaction reduces the reabsorption of luminal sodium (Na^+) and chloride (Cl^-) ions into the interstitial space. The resulting increased delivery of Na^+ to the collecting duct and the subsequent osmotic effect induce an increase in urinary water excretion. Intracellularly, reduced Na^+ reabsorption diminishes the basolateral Na^+/ K^+-ATPase activity and indirectly promotes the reabsorption of calcium (Ca^2+).

Amiloride is an antagonist of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) located on the apical membrane of the principal cells in the renal collecting duct and late distal convoluted tubule. This direct blockade inhibits Na^+ reabsorption across the apical membrane, which in turn reduces the lumen-negative transepithelial potential difference. This electrophysiological alteration subsequently decreases the driving force for the secretion and consequent excretion of potassium (K^+) and hydrogen (H^+) ions.

System-level physiological modulation involves an overall increase in urinary Na^+ and water excretion and a modulation of K^+ ion balance, specifically by reducing K^+ loss relative to the effect of hydrochlorothiazide alone.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Amilozid-Teva

Amilozid-Teva is a combination product containing amiloride hydrochloride and hydrochlorothiazide, and its use is governed by prescribing instructions. The proper administration protocol ensures safety and effectiveness according to established labeling.

Administration Details

The table below summarizes the key administration parameters as documented in prescribing information:

Parameter Instruction
Route of Administration Oral (tablet only)
Standard Dosing One tablet daily (typically 5 mg amiloride / 50 mg hydrochlorothiazide strength). Dosage is determined by the prescriber.
Timing and Food Take with food to minimize stomach upset. The dose is typically administered in the morning.

Special Procedural Instructions

Prescribing documents detail specific constraints essential for safe use:

  • Potassium Products: It is stated that this medication must not be taken concurrently with other potassium-sparing drugs or with potassium supplements or potassium-containing salt substitutes. This restriction is crucial due to the amiloride component.
  • Renal Function: The drug's use is restricted or contraindicated in patients with anuria or significant renal function impairment (e.g., elevated BUN or creatinine). Monitoring of kidney function is required for all patients receiving this therapy.
  • Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, patients should skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not attempt to take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.

Summary of Use

The standardized protocol is based on a once-daily oral schedule that is required to be taken with food for better tolerance. The most critical adherence requirements involve the timing (morning administration) and the strict avoidance of potassium-rich adjuncts to prevent serious electrolyte imbalances.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Amilozid-Teva: Recent Clinical Evidence

This overview outlines the clinical research that has explored the use of the fixed-dose combination of Amiloride and Hydrochlorothiazide, focusing on the types of studies conducted and what the findings reported, while highlighting areas where research remains limited.


Evidence for Use in High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Research exploring this fixed-dose combination involves Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). The aim was to study changes in blood pressure, tracking Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure and monitoring Serum Potassium Concentration in adult patients with essential hypertension. Research indicates data show patterns related to blood pressure changes from baseline. Dedicated multi-year RCTs directly assessing influence on major health events are not fully established; data are often extrapolated from the broader drug class.


Evidence for Use in Managing Fluid Retention (Edema)

Research for managing fluid retention involves RCTs and controlled Pharmacodynamic Studies. Research examined the medicine in conditions such as edema associated with Congestive Heart Failure and fluid buildup associated with Hepatic Cirrhosis. Studies monitored outcomes related to fluid and electrolyte status, tracking Diuresis (fluid excretion) and Serum Potassium levels. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies related to measured fluid and sodium excretion in the observed populations.


Comparing the Fixed-Dose Combination to Other Treatments

Some research has explored how the combination performed against single-ingredient thiazide medications, focusing on potassium levels. Bioequivalence studies are conducted to examine whether the two ingredients are absorbed similarly to when administered separately, providing context on formulation consistency but not clinical outcomes.


Long-Term Studies and Follow-Up

Typical follow-up durations in key clinical trials range up to twenty-four weeks, meaning existing data primarily provides insight into short-term changes. Data regarding the durability of response over many years is often inferred from the accumulated long-term evidence base for the entire drug class. Research exploring sustained cardiovascular benefits for this specific fixed combination is not fully established.


Evidence in Specific Patient Groups

Study populations included older adults and individuals with fluid retention related to comorbid conditions. Data for certain patient groups remain insufficient; for instance, there is limited information on how the combination was evaluated in individuals with severe kidney impairment or uncontrolled diabetes.


What is Still Uncertain About Amilozid-Teva Research

The evidence is limited concerning the direct influence of this combination on long-term cardiovascular event reduction. Additionally, some older studies used Hydrochlorothiazide doses higher than those typically recommended today. Research describing the specific results related to these higher doses are noted as having been conducted using different dose levels than those currently employed.

Key Studies & References

  1. Amiloride - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf: Clinical Overview, Indications, and Contraindications
  2. Response of thiazide-induced hypokalemia to amiloride

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Amilozid-Teva (FAQ)

Q: What happens if I miss a dose of Amilozid-Teva?

A: According to official administration instructions, if a patient misses a dose, they are advised to skip that missed dose completely. The next scheduled dose should be taken at the usual time. It is important that patients do not take two doses together to try to make up for the one that was missed.

Q: Are there any known issues with taking Amilozid-Teva and pain relievers like ibuprofen?

A: Official drug interaction documents indicate that Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may reduce the intended blood pressure lowering effect of Amilozid-Teva. Additionally, regulatory information notes that using these two types of medicines together may increase the risk of elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia).

Q: How is Amilozid-Teva described in official sources regarding its primary function?

A: Official regulatory documents describe this medicine as an antihypertensive agent and a diuretic. Its primary function is documented as assisting in the control of high blood pressure (hypertension) and reducing chronic fluid retention (edema) in the body.

Q: What kind of studies support the use of Amilozid-Teva?

A: The use of the fixed-dose combination product is supported by controlled clinical research. Official study data includes Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) that have focused on monitoring changes in blood pressure, fluid status, and potassium levels in relevant patient groups.

Q: Does Amilozid-Teva have a 'Black Box Warning' in the US?

A: Official US labeling documents contain a Boxed Warning (often referred to as a 'Black Box Warning'). This is a prominent safety warning that specifically highlights the potentially fatal risk of hyperkalemia, or dangerously high potassium levels.

Q: What are the official recommendations if I become pregnant while on Amilozid-Teva?

A: The use of this medication during pregnancy is generally not advised by official sources due to potential risks. Official instruction indicates that discontinuing the product as soon as pregnancy is discovered is appropriate.

Q: Is Amilozid-Teva the same as other medicines for the same condition?

A: Amilozid-Teva is a fixed-dose combination containing two active ingredients: a thiazide diuretic and a potassium-sparing diuretic called amiloride. This specific combination makes the product distinct from single-ingredient diuretics or other types of blood pressure medications.

Q: How quickly should Amilozid-Teva start to have an effect?

A: The medicine's action on fluid excretion (diuretic effect) typically begins quickly, often within two hours of taking an oral dose. This effect usually reaches its peak between 6 and 10 hours after administration.

Q: Can I use Amilozid-Teva if I am over 65 years old?

A: Official documents note that use in the geriatric population (over 65 years of age) requires careful and close monitoring. Older adults may have an increased potential for altered safety or effectiveness, particularly regarding the risk of high potassium levels.

Q: Is it okay to take Amilozid-Teva with a daily vitamin or supplement?

A: Regulatory warnings state that this medication is contraindicated for use with any potassium supplements or potassium-containing salt substitutes. For other specific vitamins and supplements, official information suggests checking with a healthcare professional to avoid unintended interactions.

Q: Are there any common foods or drinks that should be avoided while using Amilozid-Teva?

A: Official prescribing information states that due to interaction risks, consumption of potassium-rich foods and potassium-containing salt substitutes should be limited. Additionally, alcohol consumption is noted to increase the risk of dizziness while taking this medication.

Q: Is Amilozid-Teva a long-term treatment or is it usually short-term?

A: For chronic conditions like high blood pressure, the official product monograph indicates that the medicine is typically intended to be used regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects.

Q: What is the difference between Amilozid-Teva and the generic version?

A: Amilozid-Teva is the brand name for this medicine. The generic version contains the exact same two active ingredients, amiloride hydrochloride and hydrochlorothiazide, in the same strength.

Q: What is the expected timeline for a person to see the full effect of Amilozid-Teva?

A: Although the diuretic action begins within hours, the full therapeutic effect on key outcomes like blood pressure is typically assessed by clinical research after a person has been taking the medication continuously for several weeks to months.

Q: Do official documents mention any effects of Amilozid-Teva on weight?

A: Official regulatory documents list both weight loss and weight gain as adverse reactions that have been reported by some users of the medication.

Q: Is Amilozid-Teva addictive or habit-forming?

A: Regulatory sources, including the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), do not classify Amilozid-Teva as a controlled substance. It is not known to be addictive or habit-forming.

Q: Is Amilozid-Teva a drug that needs to be taken at a specific time of day?

A: The standard protocol for this once-daily medicine is administration in the morning. Taking it in the morning is typically recommended to reduce the chance of nighttime urination that could interfere with sleep.

Q: Is it normal to feel tired when starting Amilozid-Teva?

A: Yes, feeling tired or experiencing weakness and fatigue is listed in official documents as a common adverse reaction associated with the medication, particularly as the body adjusts to the treatment.

Q: Why do some people report feeling dizzy while using Amilozid-Teva?

A: Dizziness is a common reported adverse reaction. Official documents state this can be related to the drug’s primary effect on lowering blood pressure, which can sometimes lead to dizziness upon standing up (orthostatic hypotension), or due to shifts in fluid and electrolyte balance.

Q: Are there any specific safety warnings related to driving or operating machinery?

A: Official precautions advise patients to use caution when driving or operating complex machinery. The medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which could potentially affect alertness.

Q: How long does Amilozid-Teva stay in the body after the last dose?

A: The active components of the medicine have plasma half-lives (the time it takes for half the drug to be eliminated) ranging from approximately 6 to 15 hours. The drug's therapeutic effects typically last about 24 hours.

Q: What should be done if I experience a severe side effect from Amilozid-Teva?

A: Official patient information instructs patients to seek immediate medical attention if a severe side effect is experienced, such as symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

Q: Is it possible to be allergic to Amilozid-Teva?

A: Yes, regulatory documents strictly state that the medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity (an allergy) to any of its components. It is also contraindicated if a patient is allergic to sulfonamide-derived drugs.

Q: Are there any restrictions on alcohol consumption while using Amilozid-Teva?

A: Official documents note that alcohol consumption can potentiate orthostatic hypotension, meaning it may increase the risk and severity of dizziness upon standing. Patients are generally advised in official labeling to limit or restrict alcohol use.

Q: Why is it important to continue taking Amilozid-Teva even if I feel better?

A: The medicine is prescribed to manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure, which often show no outward symptoms. The official product monograph states that the medicine must be used regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects.

Q: What are the signs of too much Amilozid-Teva being taken?

A: Signs of taking too much of the medication (overdose) may include severe dizziness, fainting, very low blood pressure, a slow or irregular heartbeat, confusion, muscle cramps, or weakness. The observation of these signs indicates that immediate medical attention is required.

Q: Is there information about Amilozid-Teva causing changes in mood?

A: Mood changes, including nervousness, discouragement, or feeling sad or empty, have been listed as reported adverse reactions in official safety documents.

Q: Are there different strengths of Amilozid-Teva available?

A: The product is commonly available as a fixed-dose combination containing 5 mg of amiloride and 50 mg of hydrochlorothiazide. The official prescribing information notes that other strengths may also be available, depending on individual patient needs.

Q: Does Amilozid-Teva have a risk of affecting heart rhythm?

A: Yes, irregular heartbeat is a possible symptom of hyperkalemia (high potassium). This is a serious and potentially fatal risk associated with this medication that is clearly documented in official warnings.

Q: How are the risks and benefits of Amilozid-Teva generally weighed by regulators?

A: The medicine is typically approved for conditions where a standard diuretic might cause dangerously low potassium. The regulatory rationale is that the product’s benefit lies in its ability to treat the underlying condition while the amiloride component helps protect against potassium loss.

Q: Is Amilozid-Teva a controlled substance?

A: No, Amilozid-Teva (Amiloride/Hydrochlorothiazide) is not classified as a controlled substance by regulatory bodies like the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Q: Do studies suggest any specific dietary requirements while using the medicine?

A: The primary specific dietary requirement noted in official documents is the strict avoidance of salt substitutes containing potassium and high-potassium foods. This restriction is necessary due to the potential for hyperkalemia (high potassium), which can be a serious risk.

Q: Can Amilozid-Teva cause problems with sleep?

A: Problems with sleep, such as sleeplessness or waking up frequently to urinate at night, have been reported as adverse effects. The standard morning administration schedule is designed to minimize sleep disruption from increased urination.

Q: Are there any long-term effects described from taking Amilozid-Teva for several years?

A: Official labeling documents an increased risk of Non-melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC) associated with the cumulative dose of the hydrochlorothiazide component over many years. This is noted as a long-term effect of treatment.

Q: Is Amilozid-Teva suitable for people with diabetes?

A: Official documents state that patients with Diabetes Mellitus require careful, frequent, and continuing monitoring of serum electrolytes and kidney function. This is because there is an accentuated risk of hyperkalemia (high potassium) in this population when using the medication.

How should Amilozid-Teva be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Amilozid-Teva?

The storage and disposal of Amilozid-Teva (Amiloride and Hydrochlorothiazide) must strictly follow official regulatory guidelines to maintain product integrity and ensure safety.


Required Storage Conditions

Amilozid-Teva must be stored at controlled room temperature (between 20°C and 25°C). The tablets must be kept in their original container and the lid must be tightly closed. Storage areas must protect the medication from light, heat, and moisture; therefore, storage environments such as bathrooms are prohibited. The product must not be frozen.

Child Safety and Disposal

The medicine must be stored out of the sight and reach of children, and safety caps should always be locked. For disposal, unused or expired medication should be returned through an authorized drug take-back program. If a take-back option is unavailable, the tablets should be mixed with an undesirable substance (like dirt) in a sealed container and placed in the household trash; the medicine must not be flushed down a toilet.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Amilozid-Teva found in:

A-Z Index: