March 21, 2007

Diuretic for Hypertension - Amiloride

Amiloride - pronounced as (a MIL oh ride). This diuretic for hypertension is a strong water pill. Sometimes important elements (potassium) in the blood can be increased. The risk is greatest in people with diabetes, kidney disease, serious illness and/or in the elderly. Your healthcare provider will follow you closely to change the dose to match your body's needs.

Common Brand Names
U.S. Brand Names: Midamor® [DSC]
Canadian Brand Names: Apo-Amiloride®

Pharmacologic Category: Diuretic, Potassium-Sparing

Reasons not take this diuretic for hypertension:
• If you have an allergy to amiloride or any other part of this medicine.
• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
• If you have any of the following conditions: Diabetes, high potassium levels, or kidney disease.
• If you are taking any of these medicines: Spironolactone, triamterene, potassium-containing salt substitutes, or a potassium-rich diet.

What is this medicine used for?
• This medicine is used to get rid of extra fluid.
• This medicine is used to increase potassium stores in the body.

How does it work?
• Amiloride gets rid of extra salt and water in the body through the kidneys.

How is it best taken?
• Take this medicine with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.
• Tablet can be crushed and mixed with food or liquid.
• Follow diet plan and exercise program as recommended by healthcare provider.

What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
• Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
• Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
• Do not change dose or stop medicine. Talk with healthcare provider.

Precautions
• Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
• Avoid potassium-containing salt substitutes, potassium-sparing diuretics, and potassium supplements.
• Avoid alcohol (includes wine, beer, and liquor).
• Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
• Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.

Possible Side Effects
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
    - upset stomach
    - vomiting
    - diarrhea
    - loss of appetite
    - stomach pain
    - gas
    - frequent urination
    - dizziness
    - headache

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
    - muscle weakness or cramps
    - fatigue
    - slow or irregular heartbeat
    - sore throat
    - unusual bleeding or bruising
    - yellowing of the skin or eyes
    - skin rash
    - difficulty breathing or swallowing

Storage
• Store at room temperature.
• Protect from heat.
• Protect from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.

General statements
• If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.