Other Brands/Names

Lorinid Mite.

How To Work

Amiloride is a potassium-sparing diuretic that helps the kidneys to eliminate excess water and sodium into the urine while lowering the risks of potassium loss.

Indications

Amiloride is commonly combined with other diuretics (for example, furosemide and thiazide diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide) to manage high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, or fluid buildup causing swelling (edema). It also helps in treating or preventing low blood potassium levels (hypokalemia) induced by other diuretics.

Contraindication

• Prior history of allergy to amiloride.

• Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels in the blood).

• Addison’s disease (a hormonal disorder marked by weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, low blood pressure, and sometimes darkening of the skin).

• Anuria (the body is unable to produce urine).

• Acute or chronic kidney disease.

• Diabetic nephropathy (kidney disorders caused by diabetes complications).

Side Effects

Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, bloating, or diarrhea may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly.

When this medicine is used with other diuretics, amiloride can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Contact your doctor right away if you develop uncommon but serious signs of dehydration or mineral loss, such as a very dry mouth, extreme thirst, muscle cramps, weakness, rapid heartbeat, severe dizziness, confusion, fainting, or seizures.

Tell your doctor immediately if any rare but serious effects appear, including signs of kidney problems (such as reduced urine output), jaundice, dark-colored urine, or persistent nausea or vomiting.

A severe allergic reaction is uncommon, but seek immediate medical attention if you experience a rash, itchiness or swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Types

Amiloride is available as film-coated tablets.

Dosage

Adults: Initial dose 5–10 mg daily when used alone. If combined with other diuretics or antihypertensives, start with 2.5 mg once daily. Maximum dose: 20 mg per day.

Safety

This medicine may cause dizziness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring alertness until you can do so safely.

Dehydration caused by heavy sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea can further lower your blood pressure and worsen dizziness. Maintain adequate fluid intake to prevent these effects and dehydration. If your fluid intake is restricted, consult your doctor for guidance. Contact your doctor if you are unable to drink fluids or if diarrhea or vomiting persists.

This medicine can increase your blood potassium levels. Limit foods high in potassium, such as bananas and orange juice. Check with your doctor before using potassium-containing medicines or supplements (including salt substitutes).

During pregnancy, use only if clearly needed. Discuss risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Talk with your doctor about risks and benefits before breastfeeding.

Drug Interactions

• Increased risk of hyperkalemia when used with other potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, ACE inhibitors, or trilostane.
• Increased risk of kidney damage when combined with cyclosporine or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Severe hyponatremia (blood sodium levels far below normal) may occur when used with thiazides or chlorpropamide.
• May enhance the effects of other antihypertensive medicines.

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