🍽️ amiloride hydrochloride dihydrate,(prescription)

Diuretic Effects: Amiloride is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means it helps the body eliminate excess sodium and water while conserving potassium. It works by blocking the epithelial sodium channels (ENaC) in the distal tubules of the kidneys, reducing the reabsorption of sodium and water and increasing urine output.

Hypertension: Amiloride may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive medications to lower blood pressure in patients with hypertension. By promoting diuresis and reducing fluid volume, amiloride helps decrease blood pressure and improve cardiovascular outcomes.

Edema: Amiloride is also used to manage edema (fluid retention) associated with conditions such as congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, and nephrotic syndrome. By promoting diuresis without causing excessive potassium loss, amiloride helps reduce fluid buildup and alleviate symptoms of edema, such as swelling in the legs or abdomen.

Potassium-Sparing Properties: Unlike other diuretics, amiloride does not typically cause significant potassium loss. In fact, it helps conserve potassium by blocking sodium reabsorption in exchange for potassium excretion. This is particularly beneficial for patients at risk of hypokalemia (low potassium levels), such as those taking other diuretics or certain medications that increase potassium excretion.

Electrolyte Imbalance: While amiloride helps conserve potassium, it may also cause hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) in some patients, particularly those with impaired kidney function or other risk factors for electrolyte imbalance. Patients taking amiloride should have their electrolyte levels monitored regularly, especially potassium levels.

Renal Function: Amiloride is primarily excreted by the kidneys. Patients with renal impairment may require dosage adjustments or close monitoring during treatment with amiloride to prevent drug accumulation and potential adverse effects.

Hyponatremia: In rare cases, amiloride may cause hyponatremia (low sodium levels), particularly in patients with conditions that predispose them to sodium depletion or in those taking other medications that affect sodium balance. Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of hyponatremia, such as weakness, confusion, and seizures.

Drug Interactions: Amiloride may interact with other medications, including potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and cyclosporine. Concomitant use of these medications may increase the risk of hyperkalemia or other adverse effects and should be carefully monitored.