General
Description & Use
Amiloride is a potassium-sparing diuretic, first approved for
use in 1967 (then known as MK 870), used in the management of
hypertension and congestive heart failure, high blood pressure
and fluid retention caused by various conditions, including heart
disease.
Amiloride
works by directly blocking the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC)
thereby inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted
tubules and collecting ducts in the kidneys (this mechanism is
the same for triamterene). This promotes the loss of sodium and
water from the body, but without depleting potassium. The drug
is often used in conjunction with thiazide (e.g. co-amilozide)
or loop diuretics (e.g. co-amilofruse). Due to its potassium-sparing
capacities, hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels) are occasionally
observed in patients taking amiloride. The risk is high in concurrent
use of ACE inhibitors or spironolactone. Patients are also advised
not to use potassium-containing salt replacements. Amiloride also
carries the risk of developing an acidosis.
A
fraction of the effects of amiloride is inhibition of cyclic GMP-gated
cation channels in the inner medullary collecting duct.
This
medication contains two drugs, amiloride and hydrochlorothiazide.
Each medication is a water pill (diuretic) that works by increasing
the amount of urine you make, allowing your body to get rid of
extra salt and water. Amiloride also prevents the kidneys from
getting rid of too much potassium.
Also
see related pages Aquazide
- Hydrazide
- Frumil
How
to use Amiloride-Hydrochlorothiazide
Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily on an empty
stomach or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs,
take it with food, but consistently take it either with or without
food. If you take this drug too close to bedtime, you may need
to wake up to urinate. Therefore, it is best to take this medication
at least 4 hours before your bedtime. The dosage is based on your
age, medical condition and response to therapy. If you have severe
liver or kidney problems, your dosage may need to be adjusted.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit
from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
It is important to continue taking this medication even if you
feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
It may take up to several weeks before the full benefit of this
drug takes effect. Do not stop taking this medication without
first consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse
when the drug is abruptly stopped.
