Amiloride

Who is Amiloride for ?

This drug is a diuretic or "water pill". It reduces the amount of water and sodium retained by the body. It is most frequently used in conjunction with other drugs to lower blood pressure, to treat edema (fluid retention) or to help maintain blood potassium levels.

When should I be careful taking Amiloride ?

Before you take Amiloride tell your doctor if you have diabetes, kidney or liver disease or any drug allergies. Caution must be observed when eating large amounts of food high in potassium such as bananas, baked potatoes, cantaloupe, avocado, raisins, cooked spinach and other foods. Consult your doctor or nutritionist. Alcoholic beverages may increase the effects of this drug, causing dizziness or lightheadedness. Limit alcohol intake. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness. Because this drug changes your fluid balance, you may feel dizzy if you change from a lying to a standing position too rapidly. Avoid this by sitting up a few minutes before rising. If an illness causes severe vomiting or diarrhea, the fluid balance in your body can be upset; contact your doctor. Unlike other diuretics, amiloride does not cause potassium loss from the body. Do not use salt substitutes without your doctor's permission. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this drug. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Amiloride Side Effects

This drug may cause dizziness or vision changes. Watch for signs of dehydration such as dry mouth or thirst. This drug may cause nausea, vomiting, change in appetite, headache or constipation the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. Notify your doctor if you develop muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, tingling of the hands and feet, fatigue, breathing difficulties or difficulty urinating.