Advertising Survey

We would like your input on how advertising is currently used in the site.

Please take this short survey to help us out.

Hide this message

Home > Medicines & Drugs > Co-amilofruse

Print this page

Co-amilofruse

  • Co-amilofruse is known as a water tablet and will make you pass more water.
  • Take your dose in the morning or during the day.

About co-amilofruse

Type of medicineDiuretic
Used forOedema (water retention)
Also calledFrumil LS®, Frumil®
Available asTablets

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.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Dry mouthTry chewing sugar-free gum or sweets, or sucking pieces of ice
Stomach upset, stomach ache or crampEat little and often and stick to simple foods. Drink water to replace any lost fluids
Dizziness or feeling faint especially when getting up from sitting or lying downGetting up slowly should help. If you begin to feel dizzy, lie down so that you do not faint, then sit for a few minutes before standing
Feeling tired or drowsyMake sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery, or doing any other jobs that could be dangerous if you were not fully alert
DiarrhoeaDrink plenty of water to replace any lost fluids
HeadacheAsk your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor
Muscle cramps, joint aches and pains, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), skin rash, increased sensitivity to sunlight, weakness, and dehydrationIf troublesome, tell your doctor

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


  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008DocID: 3203DocRef: dils2019Last Reviewed: 1 Dec 2008Version: 22
Provide feedback