Co-amilofruse

About co-amilofruse

Co-amilofruse contains two ingredients, furosemide and amiloride which are both diuretics and are often referred to as water tablets. Amiloride is known as a potassium-sparing diuretic because, unlike furosemide, it does not cause your body to lose potassium. These two diuretics work in combination together.

Co-amilofruse is used to treat oedema (water retention), often caused by liver disease, kidney problems or heart failure. Oedema occurs when fluid leaks out of blood vessels causing swelling in the tissues of the lungs, feet or ankles. Co-amilofruse prevents the build up of fluid in the body by increasing the amount of urine produced by the kidneys.

Before taking co-amilofruse

Before taking co-amilofruse make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have kidney problems, difficulty urinating (passing water), or are dehydrated.
• If you have prostate or liver problems.
• If you have gout or diabetes.
• If you suffer from hypotension (low blood pressure).
• If you have been told you have high or low sodium or potassium levels in your blood.
• If you have Addison's disease (a disorder of the adrenal glands).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take co-amilofruse

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Co-amilofruse will make you urinate (pass water) more often, so your doctor will usually advise you to take your dose in the morning so as not to disturb your sleep. If you take more than one dose per day, take the last dose before 6pm in the evening.
• If you miss a dose of co-amilofruse take it as soon as you remember. However if it is after 6pm in the evening, skip the missed dose and continue taking co-amilofruse at the usual times. Do not take two doses together to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• It is important to take co-amilofruse exactly as your doctor has instructed and to not stop taking it without speaking to your doctor first, even if you feel quite well.
• Diuretics help you to lose water. On occasions you may lose too much and become dehydrated, leaving you feeling thirsty and your skin looking and feeling dry. Let your doctor know if this happens.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can co-amilofruse cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store co-amilofruse

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines