The first thing that seems to come to mind is that even though you stopped the hydrochlorothiazide, which is used to prevent your body from uptaking too much salt which leads to fluid retention, you are now taking black cohash which is also indicated for fluid retention. Perhaps the black cohash works in the same way. So, your body may not perceive the change even though, in your mind, you know you have changed the medication you're taking. Another thought is perhaps your body is having a bit of time with the proper electrolite and fluid balance. An imbalance like this is a common cause of muscle pain during exercise, for example.
High doses of hydrochlorothiazide can lead to muscle pain. High doses of black cohash can lead to joint pain. Be sure you aren't overdoing it. Check with your physician with your present concerns. The doctor may want to consider the addition of the new supplements now that you've finished your medication.
Personally, I would probably take a couple more bottles of water to work and increase my intake throughout the day to see if that helps. Maybe some extra bananas and kiwis to give me more potassium, as well.
Remember - aid can be on the outside, too. Therapeutic massage will stimulate your muscle metabolism and perhaps aid in rebalancing your system. Also, a great muscle and joint pain relief rub is Sombra - its all natural ingredients not tested on animals. See the link below.
> I took Hydrochlorothiaside (sp?) for about a month for
> high blook pressure. I also drastically reduced my
> salt intake. I experienced severe joint pain. After
> stopping the meds my blood pressure is fine (due to
> salt reduction no doubt), but the muscle and joint
> pain remains.
> The most recent (09/2006) change in my supplements is
> the addition of flaxseed oil (eye health) and the
> return to black cohash (hot flashes). Could the
> combination of these 2 supplements cause the muscle
> pain?
> (Seems unlikely, since both are recommended for
> arthritis relief, but I'd like your input.)
> Thanks!