Diuretics with Potassium

About diuretics with potassium

Diuretics act on the kidneys so that more water leaves the body. For this reason it is used to treat oedema (water retention). It is also used to treat high blood pressure.

Potassium is needed by the body to maintain good health. Most people get the potassium they need from their normal diet. However, diuretics can cause the body to lose too much potassium. Potassium is included in this medicine to make up for any potassium lost due to taking a diuretic.

Before taking diuretics with potassium

Before taking diuretics with potassium make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from kidney or liver disease.
• If you suffer from gout or diabetes.
• If you suffer from Addison's disease (a hormonal disorder) or systemic lupus erythematosus (an inflammatory disorder).
• If you suffer from stomach ulcers, hiatus hernia, intestinal blockage or if you have a colostomy or ileostomy.
• If you suffer from prostate problems or have had problems passing urine.
• If you know you have hypokalaemia (low blood potassium).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take diuretics with potassium

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Swallow these tablets whole, not crushed or chewed.
• Take this medicine with meals and a glass full of water, while standing up. If it is not possible for you to stand up, you should sit as upright as possible. This is to make sure the tablets pass down your throat.
• This medicine will make you urinate (pass water) more often, so your doctor or pharmacist 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.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be monitored.
• A diet rich in potassium should be avoided whilst taking this medicine. Salt substitutes contain potassium. Do not use them while taking this medicine 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.
• Many patients with high blood pressure do not feel unwell, but left untreated, high blood pressure can damage the heart, arteries and blood vessels resulting in a stroke, heart failure or kidney failure.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
• If you have severe sickness or diarrhoea, tell your doctor as this can cause you to lose additional water and potassium.
• If you have diabetes this medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. Test your urine or blood regularly and report any extreme changes to your doctor.
• Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol. Too much alcohol can cause a big drop in blood pressure and may lead to fainting.
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside this medicine.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the surgeon, dentist or doctor that you are taking this medicine.

Can diuretics with potassium 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 that you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store diuretics with potassium

• 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

References

• British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.