Amiloride
Uses of Amiloride
Amiloride is commonly used in the treatment of heart failure, liver cirrhosis with edema, Potassium Deficiency, and Oedema.
How Amiloride Works
Amiloride is a diuretic that acts mainly on the distal renal tubules. It increases the excretion of sodium and decreases the removal of potassium which leads to water excretion and reduces edema. It may also produce an additional natriuretic effect
Side Effects of Amiloride
Abdominal pain, Gastrointestinal bleeding, Thirst, Dry mouth, Palpitation, Postural hypotension, Urinary disturbances, Hyperkalemia, Muscle cramps, Flatulence
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Amiloride has potential side effect on the kidney as it has medium diuretic effect. However, this drug should be used with caution if combined with other diuretics as it may cause hyperkalemia. Amiloride is contraindicated in renal failure
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is not advisable to take Amiloride with alcohol as it may enhance the effect of lightheadedness, low blood pressure, headache, and dizziness.
Pregnancy Maybe Safe
Studies on animal reproduction have failed to demonstrate any risk to the fetus and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women regarding Amiloride.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Amiloride may cause side effects such as reduced mental alertness which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
Amiloride should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing liver disease
Lactation Limited Data
There is limited data on the safety of Amiloride for breastfeeding. However, the excessive diuretic effect may cause lactation suppression which usage of Amiloride alone may not be able to cause this effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
