Co-amilozide

About co-amilozide

Co-amilozide contains two ingredients, hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride which are both diuretics. Co-amilozide may also be referred to as a water tablet. Amiloride is known as a potassium-sparing diuretic because, unlike hydrochlorothiazide, it does not cause your body to lose potassium. These two diuretics work in combination together.

Co-amilozide is used to treat oedema (water retention), often caused by conditions such as 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-amilozide prevents the build up of fluid in the body by increasing the amount of urine produced by the kidneys.

Before taking co-amilozide

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

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
• If you suffer from Addison's disease (a disorder of the adrenal glands), diabetes, gout, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• 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-amilozide

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Co-amilozide 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-amilozide take it as soon as you remember. However if it is after 6pm in the evening, skip the missed dose and continue taking co-amilozide at the usual times. Do not take two doses together to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• It is important to take co-amilozide 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.

Can co-amilozide 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-amilozide

• 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