Amiloride

About amiloride

Amiloride is known as a potassium-sparing diuretic and is also often referred to as a water tablet. It is called a potassium-sparing diuretic because, unlike some other diuretics, it does not cause your body to lose potassium.

Amiloride is mainly used alongside other diuretics 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. Amiloride prevents the build up of fluid in the body by increasing the amount of urine produced by the kidneys.

Before taking amiloride

Before taking amiloride make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from kidney problems.
• If you suffer from diabetes or hyperkalaemia (high blood potassium).
• 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 amiloride

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• If you are taking another diuretic you should take it at the same time as amiloride.
• Amiloride 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 forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember. However if it is after 6pm in the evening, skip the missed dose and continue taking your doses at the usual times. Do not take two doses together to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• A diet rich in potassium should be avoided whilst taking this medicine. Salt substitutes contain potassium. Do not use them while taking amiloride unless instructed to do so by your doctor. Too much potassium can be harmful. Your doctor or pharmacist will be able to advise you on your diet.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• It is important to take amiloride 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 amiloride 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 amiloride

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

Important information about all medicines