Indications
Amiloride Hydrochloride is a mild diuretic (water tablet) that helps the body keep potassium. It is mostly used in combination with Hydrochlorothiazide or Furosemide to treat high blood pressure and fluid build-up (oedema) caused by heart failure or liver cirrhosis, while preventing the potassium loss those diuretics can cause.
How It Works
Amiloride blocks sodium channels in the last part of the kidney tubule. This makes the kidneys pass a little more salt and water in the urine while holding on to potassium. On its own its effect is weak, so it is usually combined with a stronger diuretic.
Dosage and Administration
Take as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day in the morning with or after food. For amiloride alone, adults commonly take 5 to 10 mg a day (maximum 20 mg). Combination tablets are taken at the dose your doctor sets. Your doctor will check blood potassium and kidney function regularly.
Interactions
- Risk of dangerously high potassium with potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, Spironolactone, ACE inhibitors (such as Enalapril, Ramipril), angiotensin receptor blockers (such as Losartan), Trimethoprim, Ciclosporin and Tacrolimus.
- NSAID painkillers such as Ibuprofen and Diclofenac can reduce its effect and harm the kidneys.
- It can raise Lithium levels.
Contraindications
- High blood potassium (hyperkalaemia).
- Moderate to severe kidney disease or inability to pass urine.
- Use with potassium supplements or other potassium-sparing diuretics.
- Diabetic kidney disease, unless closely monitored.
- Allergy to amiloride.
Side Effects
Possible effects include nausea, loss of appetite, stomach upset, headache, dizziness, tiredness, muscle cramps, dry mouth and rash. Blood tests may show high potassium or low sodium.
Get urgent medical help if you have muscle weakness, numbness or tingling, a slow or irregular heartbeat (possible signs of high potassium), severe dizziness or fainting, confusion, or very little urine.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Diuretics are generally not used in pregnancy unless clearly needed, as they may reduce blood flow to the placenta. Use only if your doctor advises. It is not recommended during breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- Have regular blood tests for potassium, sodium and kidney function, especially if you are older or have diabetes.
- Do not take potassium supplements or eat large amounts of potassium-rich salt substitutes.
- Stop and tell your doctor if you have severe vomiting or diarrhoea.
- May cause dizziness; take care when driving.
Overdose
Overdose may cause dehydration, low blood pressure and high potassium, which can affect the heart. Get emergency medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Potassium-sparing diuretic.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.